40 Days of Gratitude: Day 12: The Weekly Hodgepodge

Want to join the party?  Go on over to From This Side of the Pond  for the Hodgepodge link-up!

What is something in your life right now that feels a little 'hodgepodge'?

My emotions are pretty hodgepodgy right now.  I wish the holidays brought out more giddy joy like it used to instead of intermittent bouts of depression and suicidal thoughts.  But I'm working on it.

What does 'peace on earth, goodwill to men' mean to you?

Romans 12:18 says "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."  That is not possible without a relationship with Christ.  His birth, death, and resurrection are what makes any kind of peace attainable.   The closer I draw to Him, the more peaceful I am, and the more peaceful attitude I can display.  Christmas should be one of the most peaceful times of the year, yet it's turned into the most stressful, selfish season on the calendar.  We need more of God's peace.

Which edible treat you are most looking forward to sampling this December?

None.  I did too much sampling at Thanksgiving and gained weight.  I do, however, plan to make treats for others.  I've struggled with feeling like a hypocrite for doing so, but I'm tired of worrying about what everyone thinks.  If someone feels like I'm promoting ill health by passing out treats (which I'm not), they can throw them away, or simply say "no, thank you."   I want to make my Crock-Pot Wassail first, but I need people to help me drink it.

It's that most wonderful time of the year...do you agree, and if so, why is it so wonderful?  If not, what would you say is the most wonderful time of the year?

As far as celebrations go, Christmas and Easter are the most wonderful times of the year.  As far as weather goes, spring is most wonderful.  College football season is a distant third, but it's there. 

What was the last word you looked up in a dictionary (actual or online) and why?

The word "hodgepodge" actually.  I often look up words to make sure I'm using them correctly...  

Besides a Christmas tree, what is your favorite thing to decorate this time of year?

I like to put wreaths on the doors.

Share one thing you've learned (about yourself, people, or anything at all) in the Wednesday Hodgepodge, or through blogging in general.

I knew that writing was very cathartic (looked that one up in the dictionary).  Writing and knowing that people are actually reading it makes it even more so.

Insert your own random thought here.

I'm thankful for a good day.  I'm grateful for my friends who are willing to not only invest their creativity, but also their support for my arts and crafts.  For example, I had created a very simple dog stocking that was OK, but nothing to write home about.  Anyone who buys an item for me can customize it as they like (within reason).  A friend improved on the design without even trying when she customized it for her dog.

Before

After

Very thankful for cool creative friends.