Wednesday, January 02, 2008

Happy New Year!

I spent yesterday enjoying the snow as it fell in big, twirly clumps. I attended an open house with yummy food and good company, and then spent the evening with the DH (dear hubby) in our traditional activities. On New Year's Day (or near then), we sit down and draw a vision for the year. We do it independently, then share with each other. We draw 3-5 personal wishes and 3-5 partnership wishes. It's a very fun and powerful activity. We also pot up some daffodils bulbs that have been resting in the fridge. They'll bloom near my b-day in March.

I've decided to do a "Year of Tea Parties" and blog about it. I've never committed to this many tea parties (one/month) in a year, so it is a big deal for me. Some of the tea events will be fancy and with many people, and others will be with only myself for company. Each will have a theme and will, I hope, encourage you to have your own tea celebrations. My first tea, in just a couple of weeks, is called the "Relax and Recycle" tea. More to come on that! The February tea will be a celebration near Valentine's Day. Instead of focusing on romantic love, I want to celebrate friendships and show that V-day is for everyone.


In 2008, I will focus on cultivating my practice of Gratitude. (In our visioning activity, I drew flowers and trees and the word Gratitude in big bubble letters.) I want to spend 2008 expanding my conscious appreciation. I want to take time every day to be grateful, and not just in a generic way of being thankful for health, my job, etc. I mean specifics in detail - like how grateful I am today, right in this moment, for the snowy view from my window as the sun rises.

I am grateful for this blog, what it offers me in freedom and creativity, and for my readers. Happy New Year to you!

8 comments:

artandtea said...

Hi Steph,
I love your idea of choosing a vision for the New Year. Gratitude is a wonderful guide.
I'm intrigued by your idea of having monthly tea parties and am looking forward to reading all about your experiences.
-Karen

Anonymous said...

Hey, tea chick! I love your idea of gratitude in detail. That really pulls us into the moment. Also love the photo of you in the hat.

Allison said...

Happy New Year to you too!

Amy said...

Stephanie

You are one of the best people I know. Best to you in this year. May you get back a thousndfold what you give.

xo Esme

PS I have begun updating my website. Thanks for the encouragement

Angela McRae said...

We really are kindred spirits, Steph, because *I* am aiming for a Tea-a-Month this year as well! My first will be a New Year's Tea, and I'm going to have special pens and journals for the attendees to use in a quiet moment while at the tea. I look forward to reading about your teas this year!

tongue in cheek said...

Happiesst New Year!

And here is to many warm cups of delicious new teas!!

Anonymous said...

What fabulous ideas! I look forward to reading about your tea parties!

Philigry said...

love your blog here! that picture of everyone having tea is great.