winter break

Right now we are nearing the end of our winter break -- aka crunch time. The downstairs soon-to-be bathroom is being worked on and I'm trying to get the upstairs hallway in order.

It's really gloomy from all the snow -- but lots of coffee and taking pictures is helping me get through it. 

Speaking of taking pictures! I just ordered a new camera lens (thank you family!) which I am peeing my pants excited about.

Here are some pics from around the house. Things not seen: a mild construction-dust-induced temper tantrum(s), a chihuahua that wouldn't leave us alone, and lots of great family time. 

Notes:

1. Best soup.

2. Bathroom drywallin'.

3. An air plant ornament that my friend Katy made ... I know, right?!

4. The "deer" that Josh made from cardboard ... it totally looks like it's from a kit! But no!

5. My desk -- after all the wrapping and presents were cleaned up. Finally.

here

Here's the thing -- the last few months have been really hard.

When we came back from Florida last summer, I think we left a piece of ourselves there. It would be an understatement to say that I haven't felt like myself ... and therefore haven't shared much here.

I love the little family we have created so much -- and we have learned a huge lesson -- you have to work hard at happiness. Not a day goes by that those words don't ring in my head. Because it's so true ... happiness doesn't just come to you ... you have to work for it. Hard. And create the life you want. 

We are getting braver and braver by the day. We have put it out there to the universe that we would like to spend some time in warm. Because you only live once ... and we would like to spend it outside.