Holiday fare is one of the most anticipated aspects of Christmas. It is also detrimental to my waistline. So, I adopt a mandate of restrained indulgence. There are dishes I prepare at no other time of the year, and I don’t want to miss a single delectable mouthful. The wise take stake of the offerings, they prioritize their favorites and calculate appropriate portion size. It is important to estimate which selections won’t make it to leftover status. My group is notorious for bypassing my beloved Brussels sprouts. That means I am free to help myself to the more popular items before the family devours them.

Taking an extended walk is a great tactic for burning calories. The fresh air is invigorating, and it lifts the food-coma hangover from my body. The weather is warmer than normal for December. Bundling in layers and wrapping a scarf across my face to defend against bitter cold is unnecessary. Today, with the temperature hovering at 60F, I only need a light jacket draped over the t-shirt I am wearing.

My meandering takes me further from home than I realized. Blue skies smile and the quest for what lies around the next corner, or past the horizon’s edge beacons. But I must turn back, leaving untold discoveries for another adventure. They promise to wait for my return.

How will you spend your Boxing Day?

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer

Frohe Weihnachten

God Jul

聖誕快樂

メリークリスマス

Feliz Navidad

Buon Natale

Joyeux Noël

Vrolijk kerstfeest

Giáng Sinh vui vẻ

Veselé Vánoce

Feliz Natal

성탄을 축하드려요

Wesołych Świąt

С рождеством!

Hyvää joulua

Merry Christmas

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer

My family loves cookies, and I love baking. I may have missed my calling. In an alternate timeline, I run a popular bakery and confection shop with daily lines that stretch out the door and around the block. Top on my holiday list are Springerle, Pfeffernüsse, Linzer Tarts, and Lebkuchen made with homemade candied citrus peel. There are the perennial favorites, and overall crowd-pleasers like chewy Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, soft Ginger cookies, traditional spicy Gingerbread Men, and the versatile Sugar cookie decorated with Royal Icing.

Chocolate Crinkle cookies get dressed up and transform into Red Velvet Crinkles. Hazelnut Biscotti dipped in dark chocolate are a must with Christmas brunch coffee. On the adults-only table, are special laced treats. Do you want a Chocolate Rum Ball or a Bourbon-Spiked Eggnog cookie? Or perhaps you prefer a Kahlua Creme Brule cookie?

Grandma’s Icebox cookies are a household tradition along with Grandpa’s famous Date bars. The little ones enjoy Candy cane cookies sprinkled with peppermint, or the gooey raspberry and almond Shortbread Thumbprints. Uncle Arthur picks the Buckeye Balls, while Aunt Sue lays claim to every Coconut Macaroon she can find. Dad will deny he has a favorite, but the Chocolate-covered cherry cookies seem to disappear when he is near.

As much I adore creating and tasting each batch as they emerge from the oven, my friends and family miss the sweet simplicity of Lemon Butter cookies.

What cookie does your Santa crave?

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer

The great holiday rush of last-minute madness began at 5:01 pm on Friday. With lists and reminders set, along with a tank full of gas, I hit traffic-snarled roads, crowded stores, and attended a whirlwind of gatherings. In the wee hours of the morning, tired, but happy, I collapsed into bed, knowing my reward was near.

The presents are purchased, wrapped, and distributed to their intended recipients. Some lie tucked beneath a brightly twinkling Christmas tree waiting for the big man to arrive. Countless dozens of themed cookies were baked, packaged, and many have already disappeared with approving “yums.” The family dinner is planned. My fridge, freezer, and pantry are stuffed with every ingredient I will need. I review my notes and smile. Today’s agenda calls for pajamas, naps on the couch, and a movie marathon.

The lineup is not surprising. The list contains classics, both new and old, and maybe one or two added, just for fun. We know every word. The stories haven’t changed, but we watch them with nostalgia kissed delight. Friends stop by, the pizza arrives, and holiday stress gives way to holiday cheer. We check movie facts on our phones, bet on the likelihood of a White Christmas, and make plans for the New Year.

What is your favorite holiday movie?

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer

Charles Dickens’ novella A Christmas Carol was first published on December 19, 1843. The initial run of 6,000 copies sold out by Christmas Eve. The publisher, Chapman & Hall, issued a second, and then the third edition before the year’s end. They claim the book has never been out of print in the 176 years since its original publication. It has inspired countless adaptations. It never fails to make the most popular Christmas movie lists. An impressive accomplishment for a story of approximately 28,000 words.

Despite the Bah Humbug, scary ghosts, the portrayal of subsistence living, and a curmudgeon of a boss, it is an optimistic tale. It portrays redemption’s forgiveness and love’s strength.  We see generosity’s effects on our fellow humans and the infectious nature of good cheer throughout the year. It is an evergreen reminder that we possess the power to create a positive impact on others. Generations continue to confirm the heartfelt reality of our human condition.

This holiday season, I wish you fond recollections of childhood pleasures. May you create precious new memories with cherished friends and family. During the festivities, take a quiet moment to reflect on times past and present as you imagine a brighter future.

How will you carry the holiday spirit into the New Year?

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer