Usually I simply just "get through' the holiday season. It rarely provides me with any particular joy. I'm annoyed by the crowds and the screaming, whining, demanding children. I am also bothered by the fact the people feel compelled to get me a gift. Thank you but I really don't need anything beyond day-to-day items. This year however, in honor of my fresh start, I've decided to actually make an attempt at the holiday spirit. Below is my Holiday Bucket list:
1. Make real hot chocolate (with quality cocoa and milk on the stove top.)
On Saturday my brother and his girlfriend were visiting and I made the hot chocolate for dessert. I used my favorite recipe for this from a drink called an Irish Goodnight created by one of their bartenders (Dar) from the McGuire's Irish Pub cookbook. Thanks Dar. The recipe calls for Irish Mist but we all exercised our own preference including no booze at all. It was dark, and devilishly delicious.) Update 12/12/2012): I've made it twice now. My Daddy got a taste of some of the leftovers and had me make him a quart to go and teach him how I do it.
2. See the Christmas lights in my new home town.
OK, I'm marking this one off but it was kind of fudged. I had visions of spending an evening devoted to seeing the lights but we drove around a little bit after going to the theatre last Thursday. So that will have to do. Unfortunately, not as many of the beautiful houses downtown are decorated as I had expected.
3. Decorate my house elegantly with beautiful lighting and items. (Heaven help me because Bobby is already talking about doing the outside in Redneck style.)
Pretty satisfied with this one. My tree is beautiful with lots of lights and ornaments. I made a pretty substantial topper which includes a large bird with a long feathery tail. The shrubs out front are covered in white lights and the beautiful wreath made by my sister-in-law is one the front door.
4. Do Twelve Days of Christmas for my husband.
Done! 1 box of candy, 2 new gel inserts for his work boots, 3 boxes of Cracker Jacks, 4 Double Moon Pies, 5 rolls of sushi, 6 pack of beer, 7 Pez dispenser and 6 rolls of Pez candy, 8 ounces deluxe mixed nuts, 9 ounces sesame candy, 10 ounces of his favorite crackers, 11 ounces chocolate pretzels, 12 ounce bottle of shower gel. Yes I know most of this is food. That's how I think, in food. OK, so I didn't do very well with this one. What have I learned from this experience???? That the women who do this sort of thing are stay at home wives and mothers who have time to think this stuff up. Admittedly though it was fun, it made him smile, and I will do it again but I'll start thinking, planning, and buying in August.
5. Do 24 RAoKs for Advent. (Random Acts of Kindness)
I will post updates as I progress.
