The days of clouds and rain has turned me into a couch potato contented with stringing alphabet bracelets with simple affirmations. But now a few days of clear skies has caused me to shake off the cobwebs and look towards springtime and flowers. That’s probably why this get well card for a dear friend became stuffed…well over-stuffed with Anna Griffin (AG) floral decorations.

The AG Corner Pocket dies come in three sizes and are relatively big, so her complementary embellishments are also proportionately large. A die cut of a rose sprig could be about 3.5 x 4.5”, which could overwhelm other projects, but comfortably fills her pocket with room to spare. Other trims included AG fern stickers and a handmade crepe paper rosette.

Inside the card is a alphabet bracelet with a special nickname to prompt smiles and happy thoughts from the receiver. Sending hugs and prayers for her steady and full recovery. Meanwhile, I will also do my part to focus on brighter days to come.

In less than three hours, 2021 will be over and a new year begun. I just wanted to share my two favorite paper stockings -the one above which reflects my love for mixing different styles in a glorious celebration of the season; the one below which is a blend of nostalgia trimmed in pastels. Hmmm, when did pink become the new Christmas red?

This is Year 2 of the pandemic and it can be wearing on even the most stout-hearted souls during this usually happy time of the year. I recently recalled an old episode of Dr. Who in which Clara is told, by her fiance in a dream, to treat every Christmas like it was the last one. (ok, I am a Whovian). The message has more meaning now than ever.

Simply having our loved ones still here and in good health are precious gifts. Hope you are able to celebrate with those you care about – whether it’s in person, on Facetime, or on Zoom. Happy New Year.