NEW, New Normal Maybe?

I'm honestly not quite sure what to do with myself this week. The days stretch out before me like a fresh new sheet of foolscap waiting for a pencil.

Anything is possible.

The Daughter was successfully transported via Saskatoon Via Rail to Winnipeg on Sunday, and The Son started a new shift at his job today, which means no more early risings.

I'm both daunted and excited by the prospect of what this new year might bring.

It's a little sad to go into what will be the spare room for real, and to be confronted with the empty bookshelf. It's been Hillary's sanctuary and storage space for the four years that we've lived here, and for the first time in as many years, it's completely packed up. Although I'll miss her, I'm happier for her than I can say; she's starting a new chapter and has potential to put down some roots and find a home. It's a good thing.

The house is incredibly quiet...

I suppose the first thing on the "to do" list will be "Grinchify the house" and put Christmas away.

There are beds to change from weekend company, and I've got a quilt block to make for Quilting class on Saturday. Beyond that, I've had a "decluttering" bug in my britches for a few months, and a new year is a good time to give that bug a free hand.

There's a kiln in the garage that needs some greenware to inspire a firing, and there's a stack of fabric that is looking for a little imagination. There are books to be read and movies to be watched. Wool to be knitted and rooms to be reorganized.

I'm quite ready for 2013.

In spite of the looming 50th birthday.

And the weather just took a turn; the gray sky and threatening-looking clouds indicate that it is time for a cup of tea.

Excuse me, while I go fill the kettle...