Simplicity, New Year, Casa Olivi & scenes from the weekend

{credit to above photos to Hannes Henz and Gaelle le Boulicaut}

When I came across the Casa Olivi I instantly was attracted to it because it looked like a destination that would prove relaxing in part due to its simplicity...I mean just look at that pool. Again and again when I think of traveling somewhere I often dream of a place that is both warm and modern. Also Casa Olivi is located in Italy and is limited to housing no more than 21..what a quiet getaway for a family...probably a family with lots of dollars in their wallet I am thinking. To see more about Casa Olivi then go here.

As each New Year seems to pass by and the older I get I really seem to crave simplicity. Which means I don't want as much stuff around because for me I have figured out that a) "stuff" owns you & clutters your mind AND b) when aquiring things that it should be a matter of quality over quantity (I've learned this one by experience..bless my early 20's). Don't get me wrong I still like stuff but I am just learning to be better at editing. Overall simplifying makes quality of life so much better when managing a home and family. Things really just don't matter as much as all of life's experiences...and stuff sometimes just gets in the way..ya know?? You know, stuff and things....

Along with simplifying, there are ongoing goals that always seem to make the list every year as well as a few more. This year my list is not long but it did include a few goals that might seem not very noteworthy...such as switching out all of the plastic containers in my pantry for glass storage containers. I also got a head start on another small goal of having more plants around the house and patio by bringing a Meyer lemon tree home. It's funny how something so small can bring so much joy. After church on Sunday we took a few photos that included my new tree...oh and a sequin skirt that I decided to wear..it was a hard decision but I went with it being that it was New Year's Day. I usually would not sport heavy sequinage to church. We also made it to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, had a family New Year's Eve party, and a craft extravaganza out of pipe cleaners. Those pipe cleaners kept the girls busy for hours. They also felt it would be a great idea to peddle their new creations to friends and neighbors. One of my girls even thought it a good idea to price one of her pieces at $78 even though the sale sign said .05 or $2. I'm so glad she thinks her crafts are awesome...she'll be set if she still thinks the same way at 22.

So there you have it. Life is good. Here's to a very happy happy New Year to all. I double dip flip heart all of you for your kindness last year.

Loves.