Light Hearted Mysteries
As we haven’t arrived at midnight and have 8 hours to go, I shall happily send pictures from countries that have already enjoyed the coming of the new year and many fireworks, which I adore so much. I hope you do too! Happy New Year Everyone!
J
Phyllis and family to you and yours.
HopefulAs the new year approaches, the countdown is on
May you be filled with cheerful lighthearted song
Your bucket list, whether it be short or long
Become filled, as you prevail, happy and strong
Overcoming life’s obstacles, lighthearted remain
May your confidence overflow, bubble like champagne
Full of hopeful optimism and cheer
Guiding you onward, throughout the year
Being optimistic and positive will help diminish
Obstacles and hurdles, to get to the finish
As upward and onward, we continually strive
To grow as humans, understanding derive
Though the journey of life, both arduous and sweet
Lessons learned, some powerful, some bittersweet
Growing and changing and constantly aspire
Becoming someone we personally admire
Mope“Mope, mope, mope. Stop moping about! You are driving me crazy!” Pearl cried.
“I’m not moping!” Jane replied feeling quite miffed.
“You are! What else would you call this?” Pearl gestured wildly. “You’re broody, sulky, dragging around the room listlessly staring out the window or picking pencils up and dropping them endlessly always with that huge OMG sigh! I’d say that’s moping!”
“I’ve never moped, not ever, not once!” Pearl was beyond exasperated at the suggestion, she was affronted and offended.
Pearl wrapped her arms around her and dragged her to a mirror. “See that expression? That’s mope! Huge mope, over the moon mope!”
“Ok, so perhaps it is a little bit of a mope.”
“Little bit? OMG!” Pearl’s eyes rolled. “You ‘mope’ better than anyone I’ve ever met!”
“So, ”
“Do something! Get up, get dressed and challenge that creep. Show him who the winner is. Prove it’s you. Don’t give in without a fight, dragging around like an old rag doll that you aren’t! You know you can win the challenge hands down. You’re one of the best singers in the competition (such as it is).”
“What do you mean such as it is?”
“You don’t have any competition! There isn’t a single person that can hold a candle to you. You’re it! You’ve got it in the bag, you’ve won! You just let that jerk get to you for some reason.”
“Dickson said I was a washed up has-been who never got started and I should be singing karaoke on karaoke night!”
“What else would you expect him to say? For one, he’s a whiner, a whiner of the first order, a grade A loser backing a losing singer. Think he would sing the praises of the best singer in the high school competition? Not likely!”
“Aaaand, not to mention, he’s always good at honing in on other people’s weaknesses. Guess he’s figured out yours. You don’t realize you’re great. I don’t get that, buut, that is what’s going on.”
“Ya know, I didn’t realize I had doubts about myself. I’ve always loved singing, thought I was pretty good and sang for fun, mostly. This is the first time I’ve thought of entering any competition.”
“See, it’s nerves, you’re feeling edgy. You are going to be great!” Seeing that ear to ear grin she persisted, “Now, go, choose your song, and sing your heart out!”
“You’re right, thanks for the kick in the butt Pearl.”
“Hey, what’re friends for?” She hugged her before pushing her out the door.
HAPPY NEW YEAR in Advance since I’m not sure where and what I’ll be doing. You may see me then, or maybe not! Plans are fluid at the moment. so XOXOXO too all!
RenewalProfoundly refreshed and whole
Renewal affects body and soul.
Cleaning of all the old and tired
A process honoured and admired.
Feelings of relaxation and freedom
A blending of healing through the season.
Culminating in a renewed spirit
Deserving of thanks and great merit.
Understood by others who search
Hoping they too will emerge
Ready, prepared, lifted and wise
Nothing for which to apologise
Soul searching seeking now complete
Emerging changed, from their retreat
It worked. Everyone settled comfortably into the oversized and very comfortable chairs that relaxed into nearly a supine position and relaxing in to watch Miracle on 34th Street, Sarah and Jake’s favourite and seemed perfectly comfortable. After that, it was on. Since the women outnumbered the men, they watched The Preacher’s Wife (both versions) after which the women retired for the night and the men watched the Die Hard series.
Emma decided to soak in the tub after which she climbed into bed to read and relax. It wasn’t long before Nathan joined her and her head was immediately filled with other ideas completely.
Morning found everyone in a perky mood and once breakfast was finished, eager to explore their new surroundings. Nathan directed them to an “outdoor games room” which held skis, snowshoes, snowmobiles, sleds and outdoor sports equipment.
Everyone chose something and events ensued whether it was racing, tracking. They were having fun and laughing as usual which lightened Emma’s heart.
Emma and Nathan got into a snowball fight and following fits of laughter, Emma fell flat on her back making snow angels. Nathan flopped beside her. “Your favourite sport!”
Emma laughed into his eyes, “I think you’re right,” and catching him momentarily off guard gave him an all-encompassing face wash. He immediately retaliated followed by a snowball fight she had no hope of winning.
Jake watched over his family both concerned and relieved. They were safe, that was the important thing he reminded himself even though he remained on edge. As soon as he had a moment, he intended corralling Nathan to find out what went down, and what shape the property was in. Even though it was secondary, it was a concern.
Once everyone was comfortably ensconced in games or just wandering around, Jim contacted his people. He took Nathan aside. “They are closing in on the Bank’s residence. Seems another vehicle joined in. Our people are inside awaiting their arrival. They will be met with deadly force.”
“I was hoping it wouldn’t come to this, but since it has, tell our people, no holds barred take them down! Any and all force required. I’ve contacted the police and they stand at the ready.”
Emma watched Nathan and Jim. Her nerves were on edge. Even if they took this crew down, nothing said more wouldn’t come in their place. She felt guilty about involving her family. She couldn’t help it. Their welfare meant everything to her. It was a relief they had somewhere else to go. Daniel and her dad would take it in stride but the women wouldn’t. Her mother wasn’t a fragile woman, but she’d never been involved in anything like this. Fran’s concern would center on the baby as she’d been involved with Daniel since before his tour in Afghanistan. Therefore, she knew what to expect and knew Daniel could hand himself.
Within minutes Nathan walked her way. They toured the room and stopped in the kitchen area. “My men have handled the situation, but I think it’s best we remain here for a day or two. It’ll take time for the enemy to regroup. At this point, they don’t know about my home and it’s location. All they’ll know is you were gone when they arrived and they were met with enough force to take them down. It’s the holiday season so obtaining lawyers to extract the survivors from jail will also take time.”
“I don’t know what to say, Nathan. I’m relieved you handled the situation but I don’t know …. they’ll be back, or others like them. Perhaps I should return to your home where my family won’t be involved.”
“Nothing says (because you’re with me) they won’t try for your family again, Emma. Since they can’t get to you, they’ll certainly pick a target that means something to you. That’s your family. They’re safe here and well protected. More so than at your parents home since I have complete surveillance inside and out and the grounds are already blanketed with my people. They won’t get close.”
“That’s a relief. I’m not sure how we’ll be able to distract the family, though. There’s only so much we can do. We’ve played games, sung songs, there aren’t any albums to involve them with so …”
“What about movies? They enjoy movies as I recall.”
“Brilliant!” Emma smiled.
“I have a media room, soundproof with seating for all. Once everyone’s eaten, I’ll suggest a couple movies. I have hundreds available, I’m sure we’ll find something they all enjoy.”
“That will work.” Emma sighed. It might be a momentary reprieve but she’d take it.
Nathan understood Emma required some alone time with her dad and returned to the house. Inside Jim was standing off to the side looking pensive. As soon as he spotted Nathan, he gestured and they retired to the “den”.
“Seems we have trouble brewing. My men spotted a vehicle complete with blacked out windows approximately three miles out. Four men got out, heading this way, they were carrying. I think it’s time to move everyone out. I don’t think the family needs to see any fall out or carnage.”
“Alright, have the limo brought around. I’ll gather the troops, we’ll head to my place and exchange residences, for now, with the others stationed there. If these people are intent on trouble, they’ll be met with head-on force.”
The second Emma and her father returned, Nathan took Jack aside and explained the plan. Emma was in charge of gathering Sarah, Jenna, Fran and the baby and a backpack each. Jack conferred with Daniel and Jackson instructing them to hurry after filling them in. They quickly hustled to their rooms to collect overnight gear.
Once the mad dash was complete, Nathan collected the women and bustled them into the waiting limo with Jim in charge, while the men climbed into one of the all-terrain vehicles which Nathan drove.
Both vehicles were filled with tense people. Emma trying for calm suggested, “I’ve never seen Nathan’s home here. I understand it’s a log home and quite large with rooms for everyone. It’s well stocked with everything we could possibly need to continue enjoying.”
“How about some songs, Jenna, something upbeat we all know and can sing along with.”
Jenna chose Olivia Newton John’s “You’re the One That I want” which everyone knew and Emma followed up with “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Jim immediately turned some music on and they sang along with Adele, Megan Trainer, Barbara Streisand, Celine Dion.
They managed to lighten the mood for a time, but it was obvious their thoughts kept returning to the situation at hand. “Look, I know you’re all concerned, but we have the best men protecting us, Jim, Nathan and a crack team hand-picked by Jim. When he says we’re safe, we’re ok, we are, you can take that to the bank.” Emma paused before continuing, “Look at it as a change of location, a continuation of our holiday, but at Nathan’s.”
“Thank you, Emma, I appreciate what you’re trying to do. It’s simply that none of us have ever been in this situation before. It’s unnerving and a little scary. What if…”
“We’ll be equally protected at Nathan’s, more so in fact. I’ve seen the surveillance video, I know where they are and am aware of what they can do.”
Jim applauded Emma’s efforts. She was a keeper. Jenna tossed a look his way from time to time and he smiled reassuringly. He watched her relax and redouble her efforts at sidetracking the rest.
It took them over an hour to arrive at Nathan’s, but when they arrived, they were stunned at the beauty of the house and grounds. It was a mansion compared to their home. Inside it was decked with a beautiful array of Christmas decorations and so welcoming. Everyone was assigned bedrooms which were massive and homey.
Nathan had caterers prepare a feast and it was prepared and waiting. Coffee tea and wine stood at the ready. It took a little doing, but eventually, everyone had recovered enough to relax and settle into a few games with music playing in the background.
Pillage
Christmas day was rather fun
Many pillaging with a nerf gun
Round and round they went
Everyone attending was hellbent
On finding and capturing their foe
Running up and down too and fro
Round and round like a merry-go-round
Not a room in the house was out of bounds
They laughed they oohed and awed
As darts they shot from far abroad
Hit their targets one two three
While others shot from bended knee
Fun and entertaining the game
Never a winner could they claim
For the game of pillage went on and on
Until all the darts were simply gone
The mood was relaxed as they drank mulled wine and everyone did their own thing. Jim and Jenna were getting along well it seemed even though Jim was on duty, (which he wasn’t about to neglect even though it would have been tempting) it remained his top priority. He explained in part what he did, while Jenna seemed intrigued.
As evening fell, Emma, Nathan, and Jake took a turn outside to enjoy the lighting which was as festive as always but with a few added twists owing to the pictures Emma had taken in Seattle.
“Dad, how do you manage it? Every year it seems you add some new element but it always works with what you’ve already done. It’s so beautiful. It lights up the sky but it’s elegant entertaining and fun.”
“I get a picture in my head and go with it. It seems right, I do it.”
“Well, those pictures in your head must be beautiful cause your creations certainly are.” Emma hugged him close.
“Walk with me?” she asked.
“Nothing I’d rather do.” He smiled warmly at her.
“So, this new fella, Nathan, seems pretty incredible. What do you think of him?”
“You first.” Emma looked over at him before picking up snow to make a snowball.
“He’s intelligent, articulate, has money (obviously) he seems very smitten with you and he’s incredibly versatile.”
“Yeah, I have to agree with you there. What else?”
“I don’t know him on a personal level, Emma. All I can add to the picture is what I know of him.”
“And what’s that?”
“I knew his parents, not well, but knew of them I guess I should say. They were much the same as he is. He went through a really rough patch when they died, went off the deep end and got himself into all kinds of trouble.” He went on to describe what he knew of Nathan the boy.
“How did you two meet?” he asked curiously.
Emma explained then said, “I really like him, dad. I like everything about him. I’m half in love with him I think. I’m just not sure whether to allow myself to make that final leap. I’ve known him forever, what I know of him now, seems to line up. Although he does some amazingly incredible things for me, he’s romantic (she explained in detail all the special events he’d planned) something is holding me back from total commitment. I guess I wanted to wait to see what your take was.”
“I’m afraid I’m an outsider in this. I can see what everyone else sees. You’re the only one that’s been up close and personal. Everyone has barriers they erect for strangers as a protective mechanism. He doesn’t seem to have done that. He appears to be an open book as it were.”
“I know. That’s the unsettling part for me. Maybe it’s the journalist in me, I don’t know. I’ve never met anyone that was truly an open book. There were always hidden pages that you found later. I guess I’m worried it’s too good to be true.”
“I mean, I adored him as a pre-teen and then teenager. He was everything I wanted and admittedly (in part) I’ve measured every man I’ve met, against him. The reality is pretty spectacular and equivalent to what I’d hoped and dreamed he would be.”
“Since you have all the time in the world, I suggest you take it. Use it, give yourself the space to be as objective as you need to. You’re young, beautiful, intelligent and resourceful. You’ll figure it out.” He hugged her close, a real father-daughter hug the kind he’d always given her as a child.
“Thanks, dad, I love you.”
“I love you too munchkin.”
“If he turns out to be half the man you are, then I’m a winner.”
“Now stop, you’ll make the old man blush.”
“Not a chance!” Emma play punched him on the arm, “You know who you are. That’s what’s so special about you. It’s what all the men in my life have to compete with. You set the bar pretty high you know.”
Jack hugged her again, “I had some pretty awesome material to work with you know. I’ve been pretty blessed with my kids.”
Jenna encouraged everyone to chime in while teasing Daniel, who couldn’t carry a note and was completely tone deaf but singing at the top of his lungs. The fun continued unabated with one impromptu song after another.
Surprisingly Jenna sang an original, one she’d been working on for a couple of years. It was an immediate show stopper. They saved their clapping until the end and she received a standing ovation. When it quietened down Nathan approached to ask if she’d thought of recording it. She explained she was considering it. He asked if she’d mind if he made some calls to a couple of contacts, on her behalf. Smiling shyly expressing appreciation she added that she was ready to get back to singing in earnest.
Nathan patted her arm and promised he’d call her as soon as possible then asked if she could make a demo. When Jenna told him she already had and she’d carried a copy with her, for over a year, partly as a reminder of Marko, partly as encouragement for herself, he smiled knowingly.
They went on to play a few more games before heading outside once again. Two groups grabbed the snowmobiles, scooting off to race around the far end of the property. It was a logistical nightmare for Jim, who immediately contacted several of his crew and asked them to change locations to cover everyone. Jake and Sarah dawned cross country skies and headed out in the same general direction as the ski-doos but obviously lagged behind.
Mother and baby were bundled on a sled as dad hauled them around while Nathan and Emma wandered arm in arm enjoying the havoc and mayhem. Every now and again they smiled at one another as laughter punctuated the snow covered silence.
Emma sat in the rocking chair, happily smiling at her family and their obvious delight. Her reflections included many lost souls going without. Those whose expectations didn’t live up to the hype of all that Christmas had become.
She felt lucky and blessed that for her and her family, it was a privileged time. One they shared with happiness and joy. The ability to rise above what was (for their lives had been touched by tragedy and pain) but it wasn’t something they dwelled on during this special time of sharing and giving.
Still, her mind wandered to the Westwood and Marks families, wondering how they coped, the loss still fresh in their minds. Although she understood, she hoped it was a long time before tragedy touched their family in such a painful manner. Even the thought felt selfish, but she couldn’t help it. She wanted to hold onto this moment forever.
Nathan’s sixth sense kicked in because he came to her, knelt down and pressed a gentle kiss to her temple. “It’s a wonderful time, Emma. Others may not feel as blessed, indeed suffer through with a heavy heart. I know you can’t help but feel for them.”
“Thank you for understanding. I find it heart rendering that for some, this is so joyful and for others, it’s not.”
“I adore your tender heart, Emma.”
“Let’s see if we can’t induce the others into an outdoor game.”
“What did you have in mind?”
“A lovely long walk through the trail out back.”
“That does sound appealing.” Emma quickly stood and asked if anyone wanted to join them. Sarah and Jake were the first in line, followed after a thoughtful deliberation by the others who also decided it was a good idea.
Jim and Jenna lead the way, pulling snow off branches and tossing it at each other and at the others. Before long it was a free-for-all which continued throughout their walk. Then the occasion turned into a brisk walk followed by a slower pace as everyone partnered up and quiet solitude prevailed.
Upon their return after the two-mile hike, they warmed their bodies by the fire, reminiscing about Christmases past. Finally, someone suggested a game of chess. Before Jake and Daniel could dust off the old game, Emma squatted in front of her father and said, “One last gift, dad.”
When Jake opened the gift, Emma witnessed the pleasantly surprised glow in his eyes as he took in the beautifully detailed black and white glass pieces. He looked up at Emma and leaning forward to hug her. “Very special, Emma.”
“Who’s up for chess?”
Daniel yelled, “Our game is on-going, and I’m still going to beat you. Perhaps one of the others would enjoy the challenge.”
Jake invited Jim to join him and the game was afoot. Others danced around the front room listening to music while Emma, Jenna, and Sara settled in the corner with Sarah to work on her latest puzzle.
let’s face it, any day is a Maxine day! lol Enjoy
Retreat
For some the ability to retreat
Although enjoyable is bittersweet
Alone time so eagerly sought
Can also often be fraught
With sadness, alone, and singleness
A time of unending fearfulness
For others a time to reignite
Inner strength and also rewrite
Their persona and long held beliefs
With unending emotional increase
Reflection on where they have been
What they’ve done, and all they’ve seen
Surrounded by calm reflection and more
To rebuild with all a new rapport
One that will last for days and years
Even though shedding healing tears
Jake was up early, had a fire roaring in the fireplace, coffee brewing, and Baileys at the ready for later in the day. Everyone was feeling festive as one by one they made their way to the roaring fire. Hugs were exchanged and once all were present, they opened gifts.
Jake’s gift from Nathan was a beautiful painting of Maryland, a place Emma had mentioned was a favourite. He looked at Nathan with awe. “This is beautiful. I know exactly where it should hang. Nathan had thoughtfully included a proper hanger and everyone helped hang the picture, a true piece of Maryland and stood back to enjoy.
Sarah hugged Nathan warmly, “It’s truly remarkable and a treasure.”
“I have been back to Maryland on many occasions, and this is one of my favourite spots, so when Emma explained it was yours too, it seemed natural.”
“You couldn’t have chosen a more special spot.” Sarah explained why and Nathan was even more delighted it was the present he’d chosen for Jake.
Other gifts included a brand new ski outfit for Daniel, a scuba tank for Jackson, music sheets and karaoke machine with all the bells and whistles for Jenna (something Nathan had ordered upon hearing what a spectacular voice she had) tickets to the theatre for Fran to her favourite ballet (including hotel accommodations and the use of his private plane), a brand new camera for Angeline (since she was into photography), and for Sarah, a half dozen plates, cups, saucers, salt and pepper shakers along with milk and sugar servers to complete her English Rose china set. She couldn’t have been happier. Everyone was surprised and awed by the thoughtful gifts they’d received. Emma was last to open her gift. Inside a massive box, she found another and another and another. Everyone laughed with excitement, humour and anticipation. When she finally got to the last box, she found a Christmas card. Inside was a key. The card simply said, “To my heart.” Emma’s eye’s glowed as she looked at Nathan. When she held the key up, he produced a velvet box the key fit. Inside was a magnificent set of earrings the exact colour of her eyes. The deepest richest sapphire earrings, surrounded by diamonds glistened and glimmered.
Emma was last to open her gift. Inside a massive box, she found another and another and another. Everyone laughed with excitement, humour and anticipation. When she finally got to the last box, she found a Christmas card. Inside was a key. The card simply said, “To my heart.” Emma’s eye’s glowed as she looked at Nathan. When she held the key up, he produced a velvet box the key fit. Inside was a magnificent set of earrings the exact colour of her eyes. The deepest richest sapphire earrings, surrounded by diamonds glistened and glimmered. She hurriedly took out her earrings and replaced them with the beautiful gift. Emma dashed to the hallway mirror and found herself completely dazzled. Nathan had followed her. Turning, she wrapped her arms around him and held on. “They are exquisite. Absolutely exquisite. Thank you.” She planted a massive kiss on his lips and held him close.
Nathan hugged her back. “They were special. Something from my grandmother that I thought fit you to perfection.”
Tears glistened in her beautiful eyes, “I’m touched beyond words.”
The rest of the presents were opened with as much delight, hugs exchanged all round. “Ok, time for brunch.” Nathan had previously asked if Jake and Emma would mind a catered meal, which arrived promptly. While eating, the family oohed and awed over all the presents received.
Jake stood, clinked his spoon against his coffee cup, “Please, everyone, your attention for a moment…. I wish to thank you all, individually, and collectively, not only for the beautiful and thoughtful presents you’ve bestowed on each of us, but the blessing of having our family and friends together here to share it with us. You’ve all made this an outstanding and humbling time of sharing and giving.” Raising his glass he said, “Not your typical toasting gear, but … May all of you enjoy a rich and wonderful year with the blessings of good health, happiness, and above all, continued peace.”
“Here here” resounded as one by one, they all concurred. “Couldn’t have put it better, Dad.” Daniel spoke for all.
Merry Christmas. May you be surrounded by love, enjoy fun and games, may the moments be tender and always remain. xoxoxo
A few Christmas Classics.
Festive
The fireplace glowed warm and inviting
Romantic amid soft ambient lighting
Surrounded by close family and friends
Warm affection to all attending extends
A time for sharing and expressing delight
Gifts lovingly wrapped with much forsight
A season both bright and festive
Greatly appreciated and impressive
If only the feelings and memory of
Happiness joy and deepest love
Could surround the world in entirety
Never again feelings of anxiety
For peace and joy to all mankind
Always wished ever in mind
Whatever your plans this season are
Hopefully, nothing your joy will marr
Festive are many seasonal events
Sometimes found in lights or contents
A Christmas tree brimming with lights
Sitting by a fireplace on cold nights
Had to reblog, too funny!
The Christmas Season is special to most
Carrying with it a merry host
Of special wishes joy and peace
Through the coming year increase
I quickly send from coast to coast
Seasons greetings to all I post
Although it comes but once a year
May you and yours be filled with cheer
Merry Christmas to all my fellow bloggers, followers, and many whom I consider dear friends, through this wonderful opportunity I’ve been given to meet you, come to know you and share our lives.
From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Phyllis
Discover
Couldn’t resist a few comics about discovery to enhance the enjoyment of the day! Happy 23rd everyone!
Breakfast was a quick affair with toast, yogurt and whatever anyone wished to mix in. Then it was card playing time. Rumoli was the favoured winner and the chips were anteed out, cards divide up with everyone settled in for the duration.
Jokes flew, teasing began in earnest, as each player attempted to outdo the other. They baited, they quibbled, they finagled their way through several rounds. It was all great fun and through it all Nathan, Jake, Emma and Jim were on alert. Not that anyone else would notice, the glances were subtle. Nathan’s gaze passed over the others observing. Emma’s eyes darted under the cover of her lashes at Jim then Nathan. Jim glanced surreptitiously at his phone from time to time. While Jake sat back as if completely at ease glancing from Jim to Nathan. No one else would understand. Nathan did, for when his glance went to either of them, there was a look in his eye and it wasn’t related to game play.
Interestingly, Jenna would sneak a peak glance at Jim when she thought no one was watching. Her attraction for the man was growing daily.
Sarah cuddled the baby as much as mom would allow while mom quietly disappeared to nurse the baby since she’d have to change or bathe the baby anyway, but as soon as she was back, she was right into kibitzing with the rest.
The only time they took a break was when they decided a lunch break was in order and croissants were on the menu much to everyone’s delight, along with lots of veggies and dips.
For a change of pace, they dressed and headed back outside. A slight skiff of snow had dropped half filling in their footsteps and they walked several feet from the front door and the snowman and woman contest was on. They’d set a time limit and Sarah was in charge. It didn’t take long for both teams to roll out a bottom base and with everyone pushing and sliding they were having a blast.
In the end, however, they managed a tie since both snowman and snow woman were equivalent in dimension, height and over all look. The topper as Nathan saw it was the perky scarf that had appeared as if from nowhere and standing back, he couldn’t resist a picture of the happy crew standing around their snowy effort, huge Cheshire grins upon their faces.
A quick game of tag ensued which lasted twenty minutes before a cold breeze blew in and they returned inside for another card game.