Ah, the season

[Erella Ganon]

Hello friends,

It is the season for counting blessings. 

I think about trees and their metaphors. It has become an obsession for me.

As many of you know, Celeste and I made a seasonal tree a few years ago in St Eric's studio across the street. 

We were done with bringing a tree from outside in, decorating it and allow it to die in our midst. We made a tree and it has become our seasonal tradition for us. 

I made a diagram for you to understand what the thing looks like. 

When I try to photograph it, the tree disappears and the ornaments dominate the image. 

This time of year, we can all use the sparkle and light.

We all do much of our socializing online with Skype, ichat and all the social networks like FB. There is nothing like real human interaction.

If you'll be in Toronto at the end of the month, I am hoping you might be able to join us.

December 30 2012  at 11am on a Sunday morning we will be gathering with our loved ones at the Lula Lounge, once again.

1585 Dundas st West, Toronto for salsa dancing, wonderful live music, dance lessons and a fantastic brunch of delicious fare for everyone's palate. 

It is a warm, family-friendly event where anyone that you love is welcomed. Invite people that you like to join us. 

It is nice to have all that hugging in one place and while you're standing, dance a little.

Miko the fabulous salsa instructor is very attentive and teaches a style where a even a partner isn't necessary, just an appreciation of music. It is really fun and he manages to get everyone moving. 

All this, so early in the day!

All this for $15 each adult, $7 for kids (plus tax and tip). 

It is wonderful to see everyone this time of year. It is better to be in a room full of people you enjoy.

Please do make an effort to be part of this gathering.

If you are considering joining us, please let me know. 

The Lula folks have to get an idea of the numbers to set aside tables for us and for food preparation too, presumably. 

If 11am on a sunday is impossible for you, let me know. 

There is a possibility of making a second seating a little later at the Lula but I want to make it easy for them.

We've done this sort of thing there before and it is always a huge success because of the sheer goodwill and love that bursts from the room. 

I hope you can join us this year.

Here are a couple images of our tree.  Here's our star on top of our tree. I was commissioned to design a condolence card for an organization. This is one of the rejects that I like a lot even though they didn't. It is the circle of life, beginning on the left and the sprout starting up again on the right. They rejected it and sent me the link for a card with swirly bits and a couple pretty birds to give me an idea of what they're thinking of. They approached me because they liked my work presumably, right? I am still trying to come up with something they find appealing. This is a huge challenge.  I was thrilled to make a condolence card, especially because I have lost so many people I love this year. I loved every image I sent them. Sigh. This is just for your amusement because it is sweet looking. Often elders have memories that are like burning libraries. Sigh. I send you my good wishes for good health in the coming seasons and hope joy lives in your home.  Much love to you. Erella