A Hodgepodge of Glad Tidings

 

Ho-Ho-Ho, friends and fellow Hodgepodgers!
Let's see what we can make with this week's ingredients ....

What does Christmas mean to you?

This line, excerpted from my favorite Christmas carol.

"... It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth.  Long lay the world in sin and error pining, 'til He appeared, and the soul felt its worth."

What's your favorite cozy holiday activity?

Just sitting under a soft throw on the recliner sofa, nibbling and sipping -- one dog in my lap, the other at my side.

.. not so different than any other time of year!

Is all your shopping-wrapping-baking done?  Tell us about your holiday plans.

I'm 99% there!

Since gift wrapping's my least favorite part of the holiday, I love the Dollar Tree's alternatives.

Realizing I can no longer use the excuse, "I don't have time!", I ordered a candy thermometer and anise oil to make my mother's simple recipe.

Each Christmas, my mother would cut and wrap individual pieces in waxed paper, put them in cookie tins and distribute to coworkers and friends.   Simple, but oh my goodness ... they were anticipated and appreciated!

Plans?
Nothing's been decided for sure ... we're still celebrating my favorite son's birthday.  He and Lois have invited us to accompany them to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra perform up in Birmingham tomorrow night.

If you were Santa, what treat would you like to have left for you?  (It doesn't have to be milk and cookies!)  What sweet or savory treat do you most look forward to indulging in and around the holidays?

I've not enjoyed a glass of port in years, but that sounds rather holiday-ish, don't you think?

That and a plate of ooey-gooey, spicy nachos!

Honestly, I've sampled more sweets than were all that enjoyable, so I'm going with a final (big) glass of egg-nog.  Perhaps sausage bread if my study friend remembers to share her hubby's recipe!

Next Wednesday is the first official day of Winter (in the northern hemisphere).  How does that make you feel?  Tell us what you love most about Winter?

I love, love LOVE winter!
Granted, living in Alabama doesn't lend itself to the outdoor activities I once enjoyed.  Yet!

There's little humidity, no crazy electric bills.  I get to play with new soup/stew recipes and wear my favorite hoodies 24/7 if I so desire!

Insert your own random thought here.

I don't know who needs to see this, but ...

I can't resist adding .....
don't forget that person who's always behind the camera lens.  I remember someone like that.  Perhaps you do, too.

More often than not, I think they're reluctant to ask (to have their photo taken).  Do it anyway!

Thanks!

Warm hugs,

Myra