like molasses in winter

where you wondering where i've been?

well. 

my computer has been running verrrry sloooooooooowly.

some days, i don't even turn it on.

naturally, these conditions are not conducive to blogging.

i've been on a self-imposed hiatus.

hopefully this won't be lasting much longer!

here a few pictures of life since i've been gone: 

venturing out to enjoy the fall (and apple cider)

trying to go apple picking but actually going wine tasting 

having a weekend away in new orleans 

planting daffodil bulbs for the spring 

celebrating thanksgiving down on the farm 

enjoying the snow, snow, snow!

and having a very merry christmas 

here's to a happy new year! 

have you been to old salem?

i went saturday, with friends, for the first time in years.  we dropped in at the holiday fair, then wandered the peaceful streets, wondering as we went that we were just steps away from winston's downtown.

it was a glorious i-can't-believe-it's november kind of day-- bright and sunny and warm.  the indian summer has melded seamlessly into a beautiful fall, extending the glorious days of fiery leaves.

we peeked into a few shops along the street, stopping every few steps to take pictures of this tree, that house...

and then we ended at the bakery.  mmm, yum.

i picked up a loaf of freshly baked bread, and i've been snacking on it the past few days.  it is delicious. (and almost gone!  maybe i'll head back over soon for another loaf.)
...
 one more for good measure:

 i love these colors ... and look at the green that's still on this tree!