M. M. MacLellanChristmas is history! My eyes had become attuned to our home in all its festive glory so initially the walls seemed bare when we “undecked” the halls. But as they refocused on the less-embellished décor - it was kind of nice. Our living room, which truly is a space where we live a cozy existence during these cold January days – well, not so much during the day….but after five, when I turn on the lamps and settle in for a spell….pick up a magazine…or scurry through the home shows on the PVR for some useful or inspiring tidbits. I don’t like putting emphasis on “possessions”, but that being said - I am devoted to living a life surrounded by...things that are beautiful, meaningful, and that bring me joy. Mostly these “things” are tangible reminders of the dear hearts who know me well - and love me anyway. Gazing around the room, I count my blessings, grateful for the fine folks in my life. A young friend. So generous with her truly inspiring gifts – a piece of art expressing comforting words adapted from the great naturalist, John Muir – a First Nations-themed print titled Wolf Guardian by Maxine Noel - a tea light holder with a clear glass base filled with river rock - and an offering of her own ingenious photography that displays our battered rural mailbox against a cold, prairie winter background.
A beautiful patchwork quilt crafted by my beautiful daughter-in-law cozies up a deep leather chair. Tranquil wilderness scenes interspersed with softly-colored plaid. She also gave me the circular metal clock that hangs on the wall. It is devised to look aged and rusted, and features an outdoor motif that never fails to remind me that beyond doubt, all things are connected. Atop an antique buffet sit a couple of Willow Tree figurines that express friendship - and evoke wonderful memories of times shared as young girls. Gifts from my lifelong pal. Another dear chum, who, in her artist’s way, bestowed me with a wee pottery bowl of swirling, muted colours. (It is perfect for holding a few antique keys.) As well as a charming switch plate cover that transforms the ordinary and underscores the “leaf thing” that is going on in the room. Other friends have added nature-inspired images on practical but pretty items such as photo frames, coasters, and ceramics. Presents from my sister over the years also feature prominently in things that I hold close – bronzed bookends clutch a collection of birding and wildlife guides…a dimpled amber-hued vase…a punched-metal candle lamp that throws quivering patterns of light…and an antiqued tin sign that affirms “I believe in angels”. Reassurances that “all things shall pass” when things don’t feel right between us. A whimsical birdhouse, painted by my dear granddaughter…abstract perfection as only a two-year old can achieve. My sons…givers of a wooden statue of a wolf raising its throat in a primal cry, a regal figure of an eight-point buck cast in metal, and a trio of wooden candle holders adorned with bona fide leaves. “The Eyes of the Forest” keeps watch over all. It’s a numinous work of a pair of great gray owls by an artist unknown to me, but framed by my husband with boards from a barn long gone. Yes I can, and I do, pass many agreeable hours in this room of belief that continually soothes my soul.
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