Last weekend we had our Christmas tree bonfire. I love Christmas tree bonfires. They go up so quickly and so gloriously in flames! Add in a bit of a windy day, and things get exciting. I used the opportunity to take a load of pictures of the littles (who were disappointed that we didn't have marshmallows on hand). And I used the opportunity to burn a list of bad habits or mindsets that I want to shed in 2014.
Since 2014 started out on such a sad note for us, we didn't really have a chance to talk about what our hopes and wishes were for the year. My own hopes and wishes have had to go through a major adjustment. So I thought that instead of trying to figure out new hopes and wishes, I'd do well with letting go of the rubbish in my life.
And I tried to get the littles to smile and pose for me. If Rowan is aware of the camera, I get a lot of goofing off. And funny faces. Her teacher told me that she's the class clown. I believe it, lady. I believe it. Fletcher tends to ignore the camera. It's all equally frustrating.
Since it was a bit windy, we had the kids stand a ways back from the flames. We all watched as the fire whooshed up to the sky quickly, and then settled back down after the needles from the tree were burned. It was a pretty fire.
And that is how I hope 2014 goes for us. That the intensity, sadness, and scariness that 2014 began with wanes into a comforting, peaceful rhythm that can somehow be beautiful in the midst of the wreckage.
It's good to see your post there. The fire looked awesome and the pics of the kids are lovely. Love all of you.
ReplyDeleteI so wish for beauty and peace for you too Ruthie!
ReplyDeleteI love your tree-burning ritual. Our tree normally gets picked up by the town, but this year we somehow missed the pick-up. And my husband's co-worker is having a tree-burning party, so we gave the tree to him.
Beautiful pics of the kids, whether they look at the camera or act silly. :)
Jo
Wow. I'm not sure I've ever seen fire pictures look so pretty. I'm glad you've busted out the big-girl camera again. :) Speaking of which - those shots of the big kids are awesome. Both of them are just gorgeous. XOXO.
ReplyDeleteNot sure what I love more about this post- the photos of the fire, Rowan's funny faces, Fletcher's teenage looks (can you put a few books on top of his head already?), or the message inside. I'm hoping your year does settle down like those flames. As always, you're in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeletePS. Any special Korean treats you might like to see land in your mailbox soon? I am now in possession of the car most days, and with children in preschool, I'm actually brave enough to set foot inside the post office. :)
awe, you captured some great photos of them tho. :)
ReplyDelete-whit
Ruthie, so glad you are back to posting. I have been thinking of you constantly and wondering how you are doing. It seems so healthy to embrace the sadness you have all been feeling and to simultaneously move forward, burning the negative out of your life. I find your list very inspiring. Pretty fire, too!
ReplyDeleteStunning! I love the colors in the fire! And the kids--they are always a photographic treat! Their personalities are jumping off the screen! Love them, love you all. xo
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos, kids, and sentiments. There is something so therapeutic about a fire. I know that beauty will continue to grow out of the pain and confusion for your family.
ReplyDeleteYour photos are stunning as are your precious littles. Out of the ashes, a beautiful idea. Hugs to all!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures and post. Love the idea of getting rid of the rubbish. Hugs. <3
ReplyDeleteThinking about you everyday Ruthie. May 2014 bring you comfort and joy xx
ReplyDelete