"It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice." Growing up, my aunt had this tradition of giving us clothes for Christmas. We knew which presents were hers--those telltale lightweight rectangular boxes! The worst was getting socks. I mean, did we really need socks every year? But nowadays, I like having fresh, fuzzy socks to wear. And it looks like I'm not alone. Seniors also like having toasty feet. In fact, there's a nonprofit called Socks for Seniors. (Check them out and … [Read more...]
‘Twas the Day of Christmas (a poem)
January 5, 2015 4 Comments
"Star light, star bright, your wish will come true tonight." Let me fill you in on what happened this past Christmas: 'Twas the day of Christmas, when all through the home Every creature was stirring and starting to roam; The presents were stacked under the tree with great care, In hopes that happy hands soon would be there. The children all jumped out of their beds; While visions of sweet toys danced in their heads; And hubby in his 'jammies, and I in my … [Read more...]
Simple Holiday Treats
December 12, 2014 8 Comments
*Special Winter Edition* I've participated in annual Christmas cookie exchanges before, but never online. Thanks to an invitation from Patience Brewster, an artist who makes handmade ornaments and gifts, I'm involved in an exciting virtual cookie exchange. Through the Internet, I can connect with other foodies and find lovely holiday recipes. In the past, I've baked tangy lemon bars or sculpted popcorn balls to bring to parties. This year, though, I'm lazy. If you're swamped like me, here … [Read more...]
A Twist on Traditions
December 23, 2013 Leave a Comment
"A tree has its roots, a stream its source." -Chinese proverb Everything has origins. We love family traditions because they're a source of comfort, rituals that have been passed down from one generation to the next. I'm here to offer a twist on some annual traditions: Instead of hot cocoa this year, try teh tarik (milk tea): Looking for a quick way to wrap presents? What about a take-out box? One year, I found this and other beautiful designs at Target: Get a free calendar for next … [Read more...]
The Importance of Light
December 16, 2013 Leave a Comment
"When you drink water, remember the source." - Chinese proverb Everything has a source, even words. The Latin roots behind "light" are LUC, LUM, LUN, and LUS. Think about these words: eLUCidate: to make clear; explain ilLUMinate: to light up; brighten LUNambulism: sleepwalking induced by the moon LUSter: gloss; glaze There is something magical about sparkling lights, particularly at Christmastime. I've experienced several walks through lit-up expanses. Every time, the glowing … [Read more...]
