The holidays have officially worn me down. And they're not even over yet, technically. I'm sick, overwhelmed, and really didn't accomplish half of what I thought I could. Some of that is due to a family emergency in the beginning of the month. That set me back a week, and I guess I just never recovered. But being sick right now has forced me to just lay here (with disgusting floors, a pile of laundry, gifts all over, and a general feeling of disorganization) and think about what really matters. I feel so cliche saying it, but taking time to smell the roses is really what makes the difference many times. The dreariness of winter doesn't help my case, so it's even more crucial for me to find, and smell, the "roses" of life.

So, as disorganized and disgusting as it might get when life's overwhelming, I'm so grateful to have a "rose" of a house to take care of, to stay warm in, and to serve others with.

As crafty and stubborn as he can be, I love our little pup and all his quirks. Right now, this "rose" is curled up at my hip (half on top of me, of course), with his head on my keyboard, and his little eyes drooping because it's obviously time for an afternoon nap.

Even when the day to day gets, well, day to dayish, I have a partner and friend by my side whom I love with all my heart. Cameron makes my days extraordinary no matter what. He's the rose to my thorns. :)

My family has often been the cause of stress and dysfunction in my life, but they mean the world to me. They are a garden of roses, really, and when all the colors and scents are taken in, it can be overwhelmingly wonderful.

Some other "roses" that get me through each day: friends checking in, my coworkers, tea, great food, thoughts of the future, lists, chapstick, candles, wind chimes outside the backdoor, awesome slippers, and the "garden" goes on and on.

*~But he that dares not grasp the thorn
Should never crave the rose
~Anne Bronte~*