Sunday, December 6, 2020

Today is the feast of Saint Nicholas. When I was a kid, I would wake up in the morning to find treats, like cookies and candy, near the front of my bed or perhaps by my slippers. Years later, Saint Nicholas would visit the bedrooms of my own children, and leave behind some sweets, small stuffed animals, and even Hot Wheels cars. (He usually also left behind a sprinkling of white magic powder, which looked suspiciously like baking soda and vacuumed up much easier than glitter.) Why, Saint Nick even visited here early this morning, and he left cookies, holiday-patterned socks, and a few jars of gourmet salsa.

Of course, Saint Nicholas’s alter-ego, Santa Claus, could be counted on to bring the bigger and better stuff on December 25. But getting little gifts on December 6 would start to set the tone for the weeks ahead. Christmas was coming!

So, is anyone in a holiday mood yet? We put up the tree earlier than usual this year, and Dear Husband already has the lights strung on the outside of the house. I have wrapped about a dozen presents, and I have started writing out the holiday cards. I bought more butter, more sugar, more flour, more nuts, and more sprinkles so I suppose I am ready to bake. But I must confess that all my holiday activities so far feel more like chores than like moments of joy.

Maybe I need to watch some Hallmark movies. Maybe I need to actually bake and fill the house with soothing scents. Maybe I need to finish the cards and finish the decorating and get the clutter off the dining room table. Maybe I need to pray.

But a few minutes ago, I wanted dessert. And I wanted to pamper myself. And I wanted to write. So I made a sweet cocktail and opened up my laptop. I will clean up the clutter tomorrow. Tonight I need to toast to my blessings, to celebrate those little gifts that mean so much.

In an Irish coffee glass, combine 1 1/2 ounces hazelnut liqueur (I like Frangelico) with 6 ounces of quality hot chocolate (I used Godiva powder mixed with almond milk). Stir, and top with whipped cream and holiday sprinkles.