Here we are at Week 51 of Zoom In, Zoom Out. I was happy to see that Helena's planning to host another photography meme for 2015. This one will be a little looser, and I'm trying to decide if I want to limit myself to one specific kind of photo, or just post a pair each week. I have another two weeks to think about it.
Last year, we broke a 40+ year tradition and bought an artificial tree. I never thought I could do that, but in reality it's the only thing that makes sense since we leave right after Christmas to drive to Chicago to celebrate there. Having to dismantle the Christmas decorations in just a day is more than I want to contemplate after hosting Christmas dinner the night before. I have to admit, I love this tree. The Zoom Out photo had little white spots when I uploaded it, and it took me a minute to realize they're reflections of the lights. What you can't see in the photo, are the subtle twinkling lights that came with the tree. Unless you really look, you're not aware of them, but they add a touch of festivity to the tree.
Our tree is covered with ornaments we've collected from our travels and many that have been gifts over the years. The large one here came from the Biltmore Estate a year ago October.
Thanks to Tracy's help, our Christmas cookies are baked. We still need to frost the sugar cookies, and I have one more batch of candy to make and then we can assemble the cookie plates to be delivered this weekend. Aside from a couple gift card holders to make, the only big job left is wrapping presents. It's something I enjoy doing so I'm feeling more prepared than usual. Hope your preparations are going well.
