kimmie nguyen:

Good tidings and all that jazz...

My parents threw a Christmas party today - which they haven't done in something like ten years - and a dozen friends came over with kids and dogs in tow. I know, they have friends? Mom spent most of last night prepping food and I made a zillion eggrolls this morning. Insane. But fun and so unlike them to be this festive. 2010 must be my lucky year considering the two legit family holidays now under my belt. Maybe next year, my parents will want to celebrate with our own family rather than other people's? A girl can dream! :)

I'll be offline next week basking in the Mexican sun so wanted to wish y'all a wonderful New Year. Thanks to my dear friends for their love and support this year. I'm blessed to have each and every one of you in my life.

As you write out those New Year's resolutions about traveling more, drinking less (well, except for maybe @daisysf and @deflatermouse) and being the best that you can be, find a little inspiration in this TED Talk.  Wofford College president Ben Dunlap tells the story of Sandor Teszler, a Hungarian Holocaust survivor who taught him about passionate living and lifelong learning.

Hope this holiday season finds you happy and loved. Besos.

 

Pencils Up | Holiday Giving

via www.dailycandy.com

"Knowledge and literacy are the most powerful forces in the fight against poverty and oppression. Pencils of Promise locates villages and towns around the globe where schooling is not accessible but desired and works within these communities to create sustainable education. We understand if you can’t drop everything to move abroad and help, but a donation in the hands of the right people can go a long way."

Make a difference at pencilsofpromise.org.

Album :: Of Porcelain

Play - 04 of A Southern Summer's Breeze

Of Porcelain, whose music is written and produced by Josh Mayer, is one of my favorite downtempo sets. Thanks to @simonwistow for the introductions. It's been a good few months since I've listened to the album in its entirety. Love. I recommend buying the whole album. It's a perfect accompaniment for winter nights in.