An unconventional Christmas letter

I read recently that the first commercial Christmas card was commissioned in 1843. And although I am still a firm believer in the art of a handwritten card, my work and play seems to exist primarily online, so I figured our more lengthy Christmas update would too. Pardon this post if you typically visit for inspiration and ideas, today you're getting a whole lot about what the hubs and I have been up to this year... 

{January . February . March} 

The winter months were relatively uneventful for us, with the exception of Chris's 30th birthday (sorry babe, it's something to celebrate!) and adding a roomie to the mix in our home. My sweet younger sis, Brooklynne, joined us in Calgary for several months and we loved having her. Chris hardly minded the influx in baked goods, nor did I mind having a sibling and friend so close. 

{April . May . June} 

Spring and summer brought a whirlwind season of travel, beginning in Laguna Beach, for a visit with our amazing bunch of California friends. We have fallen in love with sunny southern California and take any opportunity to head down and enjoy the beautiful state. 

Next up was a relaxing week in Clear Lake, Manitoba with the whole Gladysz fam, where eating ice cream, playing Scrabble and lounging at the pool completed a perfect summer cabin getaway. 

One of the most notable events from our year was the celebration of our one year wedding anniversary. A picnic in the park, a browse through our wedding album and champagne for two, we reminisced about our delightful wedding day and our first year as husband and wife, agreeing that it was a mix of wonderful learnings. 

{July . August . September} 

In July, we headed West again but this time to Washington state, honoring the marriage of our dear friends, Mindy and Max. Post nuptials, we headed to Seattle to take in the coffee culture, sweet boutiques, trendy restaurants and farmer’s markets.

At the end of August, we found ourselves in New York City for everything but the hurricane that occurred while we were visiting. After two agonizing days of overpriced hotel mini bar food and way too many re-runs, NYC opened for business. While Chris leant his basketball skills to the World Police & Fire Games, I leant my credit card to the Big Apple's finest department stores. We spent days exploring the cities restaurants, shopping, galleries, parks, shows and sights. One more incredible globe-trot adventure together, in the most incredible of cities.

Fall marked a season of new beginnings as I began volunteering with grade seven youth at our church. It's been a rewarding and challenging experience, but a perfect fit with my passion to see young girls reach their potential and make the most of their high school years. I love seeing them grow and learn. 

{October . November . December} 

Mixed in with the travel and sweet memories of the year, we experienced several significant life changes. Most recently, my new business venture. Drawing from my Communications experience and passion for creativity, details and design, I am launching a boutique wedding and event styling business, Pink & Honey. It's a rewarding work in progress and I am eternally grateful to Chris for his support and encouragement as we experience this adventure together. My hope is to officially launch early in the New Year.

In addition to a year of milestones and happenings, I must highlight our regular doses of hosting and cooking, antiquing and decorating, playing basketball and drumming at church (he), crafting and creating (she), road trips to Saskatchewan to visit our families, and exploring restaurants and markets in the city. 

Writing is often the best way for me to openly reflect on the good in life. In composing this post, I marvel at our blessings from this year. Our marriage, health, wellness, opportunities, and relationships with a wonderful community of family and friends.

Our prayer for you this holiday season is that you take moments to celebrate the 'good news of great joy' amidst the enjoyment of traditions, food, fellowship, travel and festivities. Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas and many blessings in the New Year.

With love,

A.J. & Chris  

Photo by Genevieve Renee