Christmas at Cupcake Manor 2020

We decided, this year, after all the necessary fuss over the pandemic, not to mention the election, to simplify our Christmas. It’s the two of us, and Smooch.

The front door—see the cupcake hiding in the center? That’s what greets our guests and friends all year long. We’re looking forward to a happily ever after once the vaccine is delivered to all and sundry. 

The first Christmas puzzle of the year by the incomparable Aimée Stewart. It was an easy one, with big pieces.

The Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS ornament this year: Glenn Close as Norma Desmond. Behind her is the first Christmas card we received, from Tony’s cousin. It’s a Mary Engelbreit, one of my favorite holiday delivery systems. 

We wanted the smell of Christmas, even if not the fuss of the tree, so we bought a wreath and put these yummy colored balls on display. I particularly like the strands of beads, especially the ones that say HO, and depending upon how they land, OH. What a comment on 2020. 

My Our Lady of Whimsy a.k.a. Mary Engelbreit calendar for December. 

Second Christmas puzzle of the year—from the UK—two 1000-piece puzzles in the box. This one was so hard that Tony had to help me, and I decided to do the other one next Christmas!

Always new music at Christmas … Lea Michele and Leslie Odom, Jr. 

Third Christmas puzzle, one I do every year, and one of my all-time favorites. There’s just something about the magic of doors …

I tend to think of this lovely Jewish lady as the reason for the season. She hangs in my office all year long as a blessing on my work.

No matter what we faced this year, we are gratefully aware that it was worse for many more people than us. We’re well. We have one another. We have meaningful work.

We pray for all of us that the extremities and challenges of 2020 leave us all stronger, clearer about what’s important to us, and more committed to a world that works for everyone.

Happy, Merry, Bright,

Susan, Tony, & Smooch the Cat