Favorite Things

Holiday Greetings,

I am not a big fan of New Year resolutions, choosing instead to set goals in September each year. This year I didn’t even do that. Instead I thought I would list some of my favorite things and reflect on how grateful I am for my family, friends, health, and most especially my life.

What a long couple of years it has been for us all. For some it has been excruciating. My heart goes out to each and every human being. May we all find joy, peace, laughter, love, kindness, empathy, solace, understanding, adventure, and so much more in the coming year.

Given all the sadness, stress, confusion, fear and angst in the world, there is still so much to celebrate and give thanks for. I personally thank God for all. Whatever your personal beliefs may be, search your heart and list all the wonderful and favorite things you love. Revel in them!

This list does not include my favorite people, or the wonderful things that are shared with those we love, such as deep conversations (that would be a long list).

Favorite Things

Books

Libraries

Bookstores (especially used)

Reading/writing

Poetry

Music (all genres)

The Opera

The Ballet

Orchestras

Classic movies (TCM)

Historical movies

The color blue

Sketching

Illustrations

Architecture

The Peanut Gang

Archie Comics

Original Star Trek

70s/80s tv series

The Outsiders

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

Genealogy

Photography

Maps

Fashion

Sports

Traveling

Sunsets/sunrises

Nature (especially trees)

Flowers

Animals

Birds

The ocean

Astronomy (especially the stars)

History (all)

Dancing

Concerts

Learning

Art

Creating

Museums

Antique stores

Thrifting

Long drives

Musicals

Dollhouses

Paper dolls

Vintage toys

Marbles

Puzzles (paper & jigsaw)

Cooking

Chocolate

Bustello coffee

Cafes

Exercising

Castles and Gazebos (hence the title of my blog)

… and so much more!

Life has so much good to offer. So much beauty to admire. So many delightful moments. So much adventure. So many interesting places and artistic creations. Even in the midst of a pandemic. Even after tremendous loss. Even with an uncertain future.

Let’s all do our best in 2022. Let’s all live our best. Let’s all be our best. Let’s all give our best. Let’s come together and make 2022 the best year ever! Cheers!

Happy New Year,

Valerie