Red n' White Medley

….  Ain't got time for the Blues!

National Candy cane Day is observed across the United States each year on December 26.  In 1944, a recipe for a straight peppermint candy stick was published -- white with colored stripes.  However, some stories tell of all white candy sticks in much earlier times.  There are folklore tales of the origin of the candy cane; yet, there is no documented proof of its real beginning.  It has been mentioned in literature since 1866 and was first known to be mentioned in association with Christmas in 1874.  As early as 1882, candy canes have been hung on Christmas trees.

This week Terri asks …

Are there candy canes left in your house right now? Uh-uh.  Did you hang some on your tree?  Nope.  Do you even like them? Not especially.  Do you? 

Without a graphic, today is also National Thank-You Note Day!  I like receiving that thank-you note in the mail for a gift I have given.  Are you good about getting thank-you notes in the mail after Christmas (or any occasion calling for a note?)

That's a sweet sentiment, but I fear it's going the way of the Rolodex.  I'd rather see someone's face, get a hug … even hear their voice across the miles.  

('Suspect my mom's up there shaking her head, "Where did I go wrong?")

How are you feeling on this day after Christmas?  Tired, let down, still glowing?  I  have felt all of those at one time or another; and sometimes, all of them at once!  Tell us about it.

Tired?   Yes …but in a good way.  I was so concerned about over-sleeping and not getting the roast on in time, I woke up at 2:57!  Ugh.

Let down?  Not at all!  A little amused; mostly blessed.

Still glowing?

Yes!  Here's a quote from one of Sean of the South's books which resonated:

"Most folks are so busy looking for nuclear explosions, they miss out on a good campfire."

(BTW, if you're a fan of his and subscribe to Kindle Unlimited, the download of his short stories is free!)

It is 'tradition' to leave the tree and decorations up until after January 6th, to honor the Epiphany.  Will your boxes be packed and put away until next year?  Are you, like me, thinking about doing it right now? 

I'm good leaving everything 'as is' through Epiphany.  
There's little to put away, and I've become accustomed to the warm glow on these long dark nights.

Looking ahead to New Year's Eve, do you have plans?  

Unfortunately, no.  We'll be good to make it 'til midnight before our eyes slam shut.  I still grow a wistful remembering mid-70's dress-up affairs.  Each year the individual chapters of Beta Sigma Phi would gather for a formal gala at Abilene's Civic Center.

Have you ever celebrated big in New York's Time Square? Would you even want to be there?

  Absolutely not!  I hate crowds.  The NYPD certainly has more to worry about than a senior citizen experiencing a panic attack. 

Tell us something random about your week so far!

Reflecting with a smile....

Christmas Eve morning we took a ride to a nearby hotel/casino to experience their amazing decorations.  

Old St. Nick stepped out for a smoke break, so Tom stepped in!

Isn't this a thoughtful amenity at the check-in/out desk?

We're not gamblers, but because we signed up for the Players Club they presented both of us complimentary food vouchers.   We each ordered the steak and eggs and were pleasantly surprised when the waiter delivered our plates containing a huge piece of delicious prime rib.  (I wanted to lick my plate clean, but thought that might be in bad taste.  LOL.)

Candlelight services at our little church was really nice.  A young girl sang 'Silent Night' in a shaky, seriously off-key voice … so endearing!  I wanted to scoop her up in a big hug - but settled for applauding along with everyone else.  

This little light of mine!  (*far right, smile*)

Yesterday was the best Christmas I've enjoyed in years and years ... with Troy, Lois and the grands.  As usual, my DIL prepared so much delicious food -- including my first taste of real cornbread dressing.  (Heck, I may not have been born in the South, but I'm trying my darnedest to catch-up!)

Molly Jane and Annie Kay

I put my cell phone on 'selfie' mode and we were all screaming at it, "Smile!"  Cracking up!  Poor thing was so confused by the unfamiliar voice prompts!

* * *

I hope to be back in a few days to wish y'all a Happy New Year!  Meanwhile, please try and stay safe.  I've grown accustomed to your smiles!

Hugs,

Myra