View Full Version : Christmas
happystuff
11-29-20, 4:02pm
Okay - I did it. I started the "Christmas" thread and it's not even December 1st yet. LOL.
Spent some of this weekend doing holiday preparations while I actually have the time. The tree is up (artificial) but the branches are not arranged nor is it decorated - except for the permanent strand of lights on it. I also got our single string of lights up around the porch front and some ribbons on the porch posts. That will be the extent of the outside decorations. LOL.
It will be a minimal gift-giving year, as I'm actually planning donations in the names of extended family. Everyone is well -off and doesn't "need" anything, plus chances of seeing them over the holidays are pretty non-existent. Family gifts will also be at a minimum and I'm hoping our time together will be the gift we give each other. (sappy, I know - but I can't help it!)
Planning to do some holiday cards in a little while.
So, how far has anyone else gotten?
I have put up my outside display which includes a pair of choir children that my DH made for me 50 years ago, a new prelit little tree which are timed for lighting when dark; a wreath I made for the front door and a snowbear my kids gave me a few years ago in the entry; one urn with a silver ball, another with a green arrangement.
I traditionally decorate the inside of the house on Dec 1st. Not sure why then but it has seemed the right time for years.
I have suggested a 'zoom' family dinner in lieu of visits this year to protect everyone from covid and any bad weather.
sweetana3
11-29-20, 4:49pm
I am doing my traditional nothing again. Already have mom's present, a cellular enabled Kindle. Hubby has been buying what he wants and I could not think of a single thing I wanted. Got a special Tshirt for my favorite exercise instructor.
These holiday times are just too commercialized for me and it sucks out the good feelings. (We did all our donations earlier in the year.)
iris lilies
11-29-20, 5:23pm
I completed 350 Christmas cards about 10 days ago. I write a personal message in each one for a bulldog rescue organization. And then stuff them stamp them label them etc.
That’s really the only job I have to do. I don’t have to get far because I don’t have things I have to do. Oh wait I did put up lighted Christmas decorations and a tiny tree more than a week ago because Our neighborhood asked for a bigger effort than usual. We are making a film. So OK fine and since one of our neighbors was throwing out several strands of Christmas lights I grab pied them and strung them on Spruce trees outside as well.
But that is it. I don’t have presents to buy. I don’t have food to cook.
I have led candles in the window, and a few garlands with little fairy lights on the railing and around a couple of windows. Tree (fake tabletop) is up but undecorated. I really only buy for hubby and that's mostly done. The littles get money in their 529 (college) funds and I may make some small items for family. I will do a few kinds of cookies (one of which gets mailed to my brother). Christmas "dinner" is gonna be a snack/grazing board I think or maybe some food cooked by other people, but I'm not making a dinner.
catherine
11-29-20, 6:06pm
I am researching Pinterest for "small house Christmas decorating" because my house won't even hold a tree. I saw a good idea for a wall tree with branches that you can actually hang ornaments on, so I might go that route. Last year we didn't expect to be here but we were so I ran out at the last minute and bought a crappy $5 tree at the dollar store and stuck it on a stool. It just doesn't cut it.
Gifts: I've picked up a couple online things I couldn't resist. I bought 4 Ruth Bader Ginsburg wine glasses for DD and DIL, and a couple of nice wooden toys for the grandkids. I do buy gifts, but we have severely minimized our gifting. I'll get a gift basket for my brothers, and some clothes for DH because he is TERRIBLE at recognizing when he needs new clothes these days--this is the same man who dressed during his working days like a cross between Dominick Dunne and Tim Gunn.
Cards: IL, I am IMPRESSED!!!! I always start with good intentions and never follow through when it comes to cards. December is typically the busiest time of year for me work-wise, as companies try to dump the rest of their budgets, so I'm always pressed for time. So, I'm not even trying this year.
I have a lighted star to hang on the house outside, and I may buy a couple of lighted lawn ornaments and then take the wrath of DH. He doesn't think we should do anything because no one sees it, but I tell him that I see it and it cheers me up.
I sent all my Christmas decorations to the new house with my husband's tools and the chainsaws. If we get there, we'll put it up. Unless my son wants to take my granddaughters up there in my absence and decorate the tree, like santa's little elves:)
catherine
11-29-20, 6:17pm
I sent all my Christmas decorations to the new house with my husband's tools and the chainsaws. If we get there, we'll put it up. Unless my son wants to take my granddaughters up there in my absence and decorate the tree, like santa's little elves:)
That is so cool!!! Nothing will make you feel more at home in your new home than your Christmas decorations. I'm getting mine from New Jersey and making the most of them.
rosarugosa
11-29-20, 6:24pm
I sent all my Christmas decorations to the new house with my husband's tools and the chainsaws. If we get there, we'll put it up. Unless my son wants to take my granddaughters up there in my absence and decorate the tree, like santa's little elves:)
Tybee: Did you already tell us about the new home and I missed it? I am dying to hear more!
happystuff
11-29-20, 6:29pm
catherine - I've seen some wall Christmas trees and some of them are pretty impressive!
Tybee - first holidays in a new house is exciting! Have fun.
Rosa, I didn't say anything yet because we still hadn't see it. It finally closed (looked like it wouldn't briefly) and husband took a trailer of stuff out so that when we make the move, we will be able to be out there until all the stuff arrives.
He says it's great but I still haven't seen it, and he's not back yet to tell me about it, so I'll report more when I have a better idea--I just didn't really know what to say yet, since everything is so up in the air and I still haven't seen the house in person.
His first comment was that the air smelled incredible--he kept talking about how fresh the mountain air was. He arrived there Thanksgiving night in the pitch dark, so it was pretty stressful, and hard to even find it.
I'll give more details when I have them, thanks for asking!
Tybee - first holidays in a new house is exciting! Have fun.
Thank you!
That is so cool!!! Nothing will make you feel more at home in your new home than your Christmas decorations. I'm getting mine from New Jersey and making the most of them.
Can you get a smallish live tree and then plant it in your yard for an evergreen fence?
catherine
11-29-20, 7:01pm
Can you get a smallish live tree and then plant it in your yard for an evergreen fence?
I was thinking about that! I almost bought a small spruce at the local gardening nursery, because I could use a 4 ft tree in the garden I'm developing, but I never did. Maybe I'll see if I can find something suitable.
SteveinMN
11-29-20, 10:38pm
Our little tree is up and lit but not decorated yet. DW got a second tree she wants to put up (same size, already has lights on it and I'm sure we have enough ornaments for a few more trees beside this one) so that will find a spot. The rest of the garland and Christmassy candles and such will appear sometime this week, I'm sure. That's DW's department.
Christmas shopping is done for pretty much everyone (DW likes to get an early start); I would like to pick up another small gift or two for DW to observe the day. We agreed that, rather than gifts for each other, we'd each get a small splurge on the remodeling/updating we're doing next year (think nicer flooring or an upgrade on bath fixtures; ain't we romantic??).
We'd like to send out cards, but it hasn't been a good year for pictures, so ... who knows? I hear New Years' cards are A Thing. Right? ;)
Social plans are up in the air. My family really doesn't celebrate. DW's does, but with one of the sisters recently passed on and great-grandma in assisted living and (likely) not available for day visits, and with grandchild #3 being the big unknown, plans are up in the air. Hey, Christmas is almost a full month away. We've got time...
Teacher Terry
11-29-20, 11:10pm
I quit sending Xmas cards about 15 years ago. I greatly downsized my decorations a few years ago and with no one coming over don’t know if I will decorate at all. My son is still living with us so will probably make lasagna for dinner on Xmas. My stepson has Covid so fairly safe to have him over also. Tybee, can’t wait to hear about the new house once you get there.
rosarugosa
11-30-20, 6:35am
TT: I don't understand this part, "My stepson has Covid so fairly safe to have him over also."
rosarugosa
11-30-20, 6:41am
Rosa, I didn't say anything yet because we still hadn't see it. It finally closed (looked like it wouldn't briefly) and husband took a trailer of stuff out so that when we make the move, we will be able to be out there until all the stuff arrives.
He says it's great but I still haven't seen it, and he's not back yet to tell me about it, so I'll report more when I have a better idea--I just didn't really know what to say yet, since everything is so up in the air and I still haven't seen the house in person.
His first comment was that the air smelled incredible--he kept talking about how fresh the mountain air was. He arrived there Thanksgiving night in the pitch dark, so it was pretty stressful, and hard to even find it.
I'll give more details when I have them, thanks for asking!
Wow, you must be in such a state of suspense! I look forward to details and so glad things are finally falling into place for you!
Tybee, so glad that your housing concerns are being resolved. It is a stressful time but now you can look forward to saying,"Whew, glad that is over!"
sweetana3
11-30-20, 9:19am
I suspect he will be out of quarantine and negative by Christmas.
Teacher Terry
11-30-20, 11:21am
He has been negative for 2 weeks. I meant to type had not has. He is on a flight crew and they all got it. He is flying again. The military has been cautious.
happystuff
11-30-20, 11:29am
He has been negative for 2 weeks. I meant to type had not has. He is on a flight crew and they all got it. He is flying again. The military has been cautious.
Glad he is okay. Have a friend whose niece was on a ship where Covid hit. She was told the military did a good job quarantining, testing and caring for those that both had it and did not have it.
happystuff
11-30-20, 11:30am
I've been on-again-off-again with Christmas cards through the years. I would like to send some this year - just need to "do it".
We are decorating and putting up our tree next Sunday. I am enjoying my fall mantle décor so much right now I wasn't ready to transition. First day of Advent is too close to Thanksgiving for me.
I have my DH's and DD's gift, and granDD's. Will get a book for my SIL along with a couple jars of my pickled asparagus (tradition he looks forward to). No idea what to get my 18 yr-old grandson. Everything he wants is $$$$. Any ideas? Mind you, he's autistic, does not do video games or sports (except fishing, hiking). He also doesn't read for pleasure. He watches speculative evolution documentaries and memorizes the narratives. There ya go.
SteveinMN
11-30-20, 4:40pm
No idea what to get my 18 yr-old grandson. Everything he wants is $$$$. Any ideas? A gift we've thought of for a few hard-to-buy-for folks is one of those watch-and-grow gardens. That's probably a trade name, but it's essentially a pot full of bulbs that are forced so they grow out of season in the pot. You can care for it (not very complicated) and observe the changes and, especially if we're all stuck inside this winter, it'll be nice to have something live and growing nearby. If you can splash out with the budget, maybe one of those tabletop gardens would work (Aerogardens, etc).
I've been on-again-off-again with Christmas cards through the years. I would like to send some this year - just need to "do it".
SO is the ‘Christmas carder’ in our household. He’s been the same abou on again off again. If ever there was a year for ‘just do It this is the one.
Since we're in a new house for this Christmas, and it faces the street instead of the back of the block like our apartment did, SO decided to decorate (which means I had to climb on the garage roof but we're both happy with the result.)
3498
Ten years ago I sent about a dozen cards to older family friends and distant relatives in Germany and the Netherlands, whom we had met when we visited in 2007. A few of the younger ones had stayed in touch via email, but these are people over 75 years old. English is not very easy for them.
Again this year I’m sending them cards. Between having extra time due to not working, and less to do due to various quarantines, it seemed like the right time to send them a holiday card and note again.
No idea what to get my 18 yr-old grandson. Everything he wants is $$$$. Any ideas? Mind you, he's autistic, does not do video games or sports (except fishing, hiking).
I have four or five folding pocket knives that were either gifted to me or inherited and each has a little special meaning beyond utilitarian. I have a small Kershaw for an every day and a basic Swiss Army that I often carry in a pack or camping. Desires might be different for a younger generation.
rosarugosa
12-1-20, 6:33am
I've probably told this before, but I clearly remember watching my mother stress her way through an enormous list of cards that had to be sent with little personal notes/letters in each one. The year I especially remember, I was about 10 and we were at my grandparents in NC for the holidays. Mom seemed to spend all her time through xmas and beyond on those damned cards (I'm sure this is somewhat exaggerated in my mind). I thought to myself, "I'm never doing that," and I haven't.
Since we're in a new house for this Christmas, and it faces the street instead of the back of the block like our apartment did, SO decided to decorate (which means I had to climb on the garage roof but we're both happy with the result.)
3498
Looks good! Adds a new sense to your feeling of home, doesn't it?
iris lilies
12-1-20, 12:15pm
Jp it is so exciting to put up your first xmas lights in your new home!
Razz, love the lights. Congrats on the move.
I just put up my 2’ tall tree on my end table a couple of weeks ago. Love the lights.
I have four or five folding pocket knives that were either gifted to me or inherited and each has a little special meaning beyond utilitarian. I have a small Kershaw for an every day and a basic Swiss Army that I often carry in a pack or camping. Desires might be different for a younger generation.
Good idea, thanks! I don't believe his tackle box has a utility knife yet. (I know because I'm the one who takes him fishing!)
Did you receive the information via email that the Irish parliament has declared that Santa is an "essential worker" and therefore not subject to the 14 day quarantine so he can enter Irish skies in his travels and Irish homes as well. Santa does ask that social distancing rules be respected to keep both himself and all the children that he will visit safe this Christmas.
Sounds like a smart parliament to me.
I have four or five folding pocket knives that were either gifted to me or inherited and each has a little special meaning beyond utilitarian. I have a small Kershaw for an every day and a basic Swiss Army that I often carry in a pack or camping. Desires might be different for a younger generation.
I think that's a fantastic idea!
happystuff
12-3-20, 11:54am
Did you receive the information via email that the Irish parliament has declared that Santa is an "essential worker" and therefore not subject to the 14 day quarantine so he can enter Irish skies in his travels and Irish homes as well. Santa does ask that social distancing rules be respected to keep both himself and all the children that he will visit safe this Christmas.
Sounds like a smart parliament to me.
:)
Good idea, thanks! I don't believe his tackle box has a utility knife yet. (I know because I'm the one who takes him fishing!)
Another neat idea would be binoculars or a compass.
I can recommend a good compass that’s about $40 off Amazon. I use it underwater but also good on the surface.
Okay - I did it. I started the "Christmas" thread and it's not even December 1st yet. LOL.
So, how far has anyone else gotten?
Done. I wrapped up, boxed up and shipped today! My family is BIG! We draw names and we have a family each. My family is a niece/nephew and their 2 children, girl age 8 and boy age 18. (We include kids to age 21 or married whichever comes first).
It's kind of deflating to be done on December 3 honestly. Hubster wants a pair of wireless earbuds. I think it is important they are exactly what he wants, so he will research and order his own gift this year. I'll often get him an article of clothing from our alma mater just cuz. We have no expectation of each other for gifts. We follow the urge.
I am almost done.
Each year I try to give one special gift that the family members probably would not buy themselves. One year it was the Instant Pot which they have thoroughly enjoyed using. This year I offered each family some quality kitchen knives. One accepted the offer of Cutco, love them, and the other chose a Soda Stream. Done! DGS gets a Apple app gift card. Done. One sister gets something she really needs but hesitates to buy - this year, it was her choice of a chargeable stick vacuum that is so much lighter than her heavy unit; I add a gift card from a store about 300 feet away that has all the basics - clothes, groceries, etc. She lives in the snowbelt so this is great for her. Done!
One large donation to the Salvation Army finishes my Christmas gifting.
All other dear ones get a hand painted card which I am working to finish tomorrow or an ecard. Very simple!
This Christmas will be a downscaled version socially due to covid. I usually prepare a Christmas brunch for Christmas morning for friends who are solos. I have not found a way to do it while following covid protocols. Any ideas would be appreciated.
@razz
Could you make the food for the solos and deliver it to everyone?
happystuff
12-4-20, 11:21am
@razz
Could you make the food for the solos and deliver it to everyone?
I agree with this as well. And if anyone wanted to "eat together", maybe make the deliveries and see who is able to join a zoom or skype call at a specific time to share the brunch together.
happystuff
12-4-20, 11:23am
Have the gifts for the immediate family pretty much ordered or at least figured out... not a big "present" year. Still have hopes to get cards out and have narrowed down the donations to make in honor of extended family members. This holiday will be smaller but I hope still a good one.
Could you make the food for the solos and deliver it to everyone?
That's what we did for Thanksgiving. The recipients enjoyed it, we enjoyed having a reason beyond the two of us to cook a big dinner, and it was quite safe.
happystuff
12-5-20, 5:18pm
Done! Dreary afternoon made pleasant with decorating. And, yes, one of the cats showed up to investigate just as we finished. LOL.
3502
mschrisgo2
12-5-20, 6:30pm
So bummed that the Covid crisis and resulting shut downs will prevent my grandson-1 and his girlfriend from coming to California as planned for 4 days for Christmas. He joined her in Madison WI year and a half ago, we all really miss him/them.
Thankfully, she works in IT and is able to work from home. He manages a chain coffee shop which has been mostly closed for the last nine months.
Very pretty and cheerful on a glum day.
We're doing Secret Santa rather than buying loads of people stuff that they probably won't use. But I'm thinking to go with something more sustainable (https://www.justluve.com/food-home/guides/gift-guides/eco-friendly-gifts/) any way for my person, a decent cookbook like the zero waste cooking one on there. But the person I'm buying for isn't to worried about sustainable so not sure...
frugal-one
12-8-20, 10:48pm
We're doing Secret Santa rather than buying loads of people stuff that they probably won't use. But I'm thinking to go with something more sustainable (https://www.justluve.com/food-home/guides/gift-guides/eco-friendly-gifts/) any way for my person, a decent cookbook like the zero waste cooking one on there. But the person I'm buying for isn't to worried about sustainable so not sure...
My favorite useful book this year is "Preserving Summer's Bounty". It is not a new book but I learn something new each time I pick it up. YLMV
https://www.google.com/books/edition/Preserving_Summer_s_Bounty/oCC92u-LcoEC?hl=en&gbpv=1&printsec=frontcover
My favorite useful book this year is "Preserving Summer's Bounty". It is not a new book but I learn something new each time I pick it up. YLMV
https://www.google.com/books/edition/Preserving_Summer_s_Bounty/oCC92u-LcoEC?hl=en&gbpv=1&printsec=frontcover
I've been meaning to ask, what does YLMV signify? I'm familiar with Your Mileage May Vary and I assume this is some variant which escapes me.
iris lilies
12-9-20, 12:12am
I didn’t have any Obligatiry buying to do, but I bought our dog 12 tennis balls because he loses them in the house and so with 12 in play we should always be able to find a ball.
It’s funny that most of my bulldogs are indifferent towards balls, but we’ve had two in the past six months who really like their balls.
frugal-one
12-9-20, 4:35am
I've been meaning to ask, what does YLMV signify? I'm familiar with Your Mileage May Vary and I assume this is some variant which escapes me.
Same difference... Your luck may vary.
I didn’t have any Obligatiry buying to do, but I bought our dog 12 tennis balls because he loses them in the house and so with 12 in play we should always be able to find a ball.
It’s funny that most of my bulldogs are indifferent towards balls, but we’ve had two in the past six months who really like their balls.
That reminds me of a video my sister sent me a few years ago. She had bought a box of used tennis balls for her Great Dane. When she got home she poured them all out at once. Dog was so excited and started picking each one up to inspect before moving on to the next one.
That reminds me of a video my sister sent me a few years ago. She had bought a box of used tennis balls for her Great Dane. When she got home she poured them all out at once. Dog was so excited and started picking each one up to inspect before moving on to the next one.
That is so cute! I seem to have the only two dogs in the world that could care nothing for balls. The only toys they like are squeaky toys and stuffed animals.
happystuff
12-12-20, 12:57pm
My cats actually like to play with tennis balls! LOL. But one of their favorite "toys" is a brown paper grocery bag. You can imagine what my living room looks like! LOL
My dogs were imprinted by a very dour cairn terrier, who I think told them balls were stupid, and squeaky prey was where it's at.
iris lilies
12-12-20, 2:04pm
My dogs were imprinted by a very dour cairn terrier, who I think told them balls were stupid, and squeaky prey was where it's at.
bulldogs are low in prey drive. They often don’t care what is running around them or moving by them. It depends on the dog though. Right now my ball chaser is also a squirrel chaser.
I will never forget seeing my second bulldog drop into a perfect bird dog point. She did it twice in her life. It was the most amazing thing because she was very bulldoggy, quite lazy and non athletic. Never chased anything. Not an active dog. But boy she saw those birds and Something in her reptilian brain triggered her pointer gene.
For those who have missed out on travels this year, take a trip to Italy and see the largest Christmas tree and read the story.
https://www.italybyevents.com/en/events/umbria/world-largest-christmas-tree-gubbio/
Went to the store today and got stuffing, mashed potatoes, which I'll have on Christmas with pork chops and frozen veggies I have in the freezer. Got some chocolate and nice cookies, and I'm munching on tortilla chips and salsa con queso right now.
I'll be at church Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, as well as Wednesday evening. I've been asked to sing/read as they really need another voice. We've figured out how to do it, socially distanced. Choir directors are a married couple and will be on one side of the church at the front in the usual choir area. I'll be at the front on the other side - about 20ft away where no on goes during services. I'll be able to sing without a mask.
dado potato
12-20-20, 7:45pm
To all:
Green and silver, red and gold,
And the story borne of old ...
Truth and Love and Hope abide.
It is Christmastide.
Since we're waxing poetic:
Chestnuts roasting on a dumpster fire
Covid nipping at my nose
Christmas carols by a virtual choir
Docs dressed up in hazmat clothes...
(I may finish it someday..)
frugal-one
12-21-20, 12:16am
May your troubles be less and your blessings be more and nothing but happiness come through your door.
Love these poetic efforts!!
iris lilies
12-21-20, 9:41pm
Here I am, Miss Christmas Cranky, and right on schedule I am tired of the one thing I’m being forced to do and that is open Christmas cards. I have a designated place for Christmas cards, half of our fireplace mantle. It is now full.So this evening I thought what the hell, why do I have to display these cards, I opened them and sent directly into paper recycling. I don’t know why I thought I had to display them. I don’t.
oh – right here’s another thing I can be cranky about. I’m on a search again this year for peppermint ice cream. Our friend started a gourmet ice cream shop that has since expanded into four locations and she also sells to grocery stores and etc. Her products are sky high in price, something like eight dollars for one scoop cone or something like that. But anyway, for a high-quality peppermint ice cream I will pay a premium, cost does not matter. She didn’t have any at the corner shop. When I sent an email she said oh all of our stores “should “have peppermint. So I called her South city store. It did not have it. I sent her email again saying Tamara, these two stores don’t have peppermint ice cream. Help.
She did not get back to me after 24 hours about who is stocking peppermint ice cream in her vest Empire.
Peppermint ice cream used to be standard in December in stores. I suppose this is just one more thing we can blame the youth of today for ruining for us oldsters. Ha ha..
Peppermint ice cream? Ugh I have tried it a few times, way too sweet and it tasted like chemicals with gaudy green and red specks. What makes this one so good?
I make my own ice cream with egg custard, real cream and natural flavouring so am very particular. Never tried a peppermint using those base ingredients.
iris lilies
12-21-20, 10:31pm
Peppermint ice cream? Ugh I have tried it a few times, way too sweet and it tasted like chemicals with gaudy green and red specks. What makes this one so good?
I make my own ice cream with egg custard, real cream and natural flavouring so am very particular. Never tried a peppermint using those base ingredients.
I don’t know if Tamara’s peppermint ice cream is good, but I would think that it is because she makes a big deal about how everything is natural, Natural this a natural that and real cream and blah blah blah. If I ever get any of her peppermint ice cream, I’ll let you know if it’s good.
I’m not a huge ice cream fan so I don’t buy many of her products but the ones we’ve had are very good. Very expensive.
rosarugosa
12-22-20, 6:29am
IL: Do you send xmas cards? I do not, so I only receive a very modest amount. If you are sending them, you are bringing this scourge upon yourself, lol.
I LOVE peppermint ice cream We have Hershey's and Edy's makes one. Penn State's Creamery has a wonderful mint chocolate chip, but I don't know if it has peppermint. I like the kind with both wintergreen and peppermint pieces in it. We had a Trickling springs Dairy, but they've gone out of business. I thin our south Mountain Creamery might have it. Shipping from Penn State is expensive...I don't know if Hershey's and South Mountain mail. Good luck. As for cards, I send them every other year...
iris lilies
12-22-20, 10:13am
IL: Do you send xmas cards? I do not, so I only receive a very modest amount. If you are sending them, you are bringing this scourge upon yourself, lol.
Dude, I don’t send personal Christmas cards, I’m a cranky Christmas bitch. But to be truthful, I will say this year and last year I gave Christmas cards to people on my street because I’m the block captain and I was delivering a message of thanks to everyone for participating in neighborhood activities. And then, I do address and process 350 Christmas cards for bulldog rescue, but that is our annual holiday appeal and seasonal greetings effort, not my personal cards.
Speaking of personal Christmas cards in this mess on my fireplace mantle, we got a card signed “Kathy and Mike. “ our Friends Kathy And Michael moved Arizona two years ago.
it did not look like his handwriting or hers for that matter, but I didn’t pay that much attention. Then DH happened to look at the postmark and it was from Iowa. We had to think for a minute— what’s going on here – and DH figured out that Kathy and Mike are his cousins. I have no idea who these people are.
Last year I was horrified to open an 8 x 10 envelope handed to me at a garden club event. In it were 20+ Christmas cards signed by officers of our state garden club. I’m not sure who thought that was a good idea. Why do they do this? It was just so overwhelming and so unnecessary.
Last year I was horrified to open an 8 x 10 envelope handed to me at a garden club event. In it were 20+ Christmas cards signed by officers of our state garden club. I’m not sure who thought that was a good idea. Why do they do this? It was just so overwhelming and so unnecessary.
Sometimes a person suggests something and others go along because no one can think of a diplomatic way of saying, "that is a ridiculous waste of money, effort or time."
I have been in trouble a few times for stating the obvious - "this is not according to the org's bylaws" or "the liability to us by doing this is unnecessary and unwise". I end up withdrawing from the situation and/or organization but, thereafter, I am told that my exact words are quoted when needed in future similar circumstances. It seems that some time is necessary for common sense to return to govern.
Chicken lady
12-22-20, 3:18pm
Razz, if you want to try it, I highly recommend adding 1/2 tsp peppermint extract per quart to your basic vanilla recipe.
(I make my own frozen custard)
iris lilies
12-22-20, 3:26pm
I found two pints of peppermint ice cream at the grocery store. Am enjoying it now. It is a premium brand made with cream and no high fructose etc.
the peppermint is light in it, but that’s fine with me.
IL: Do you send xmas cards? I do not, so I only receive a very modest amount. If you are sending them, you are bringing this scourge upon yourself, lol.
Good point. I received 7 cards so far this year. I sent 10 out, but 5 of those were sent overseas to people I hadn’t communicated with in 10 years. And 3 of them were sent to young nieces and nephews who needed some Christmas cash.
Life is quite amazing or rather people are amazing. So far, I have had four offers to drop off a Christmas dinner to me.
For a few years, I have hosted a Christmas morning brunch for solos etc. This year I offered to drop a Christmas greeting with muffins for a brunch and a full Christmas dinner and have 3 who said yes please. Ontario is going into complete lockdown on Boxing Day due to rising covid numbers. Life keeps changing the planning arrangements as a result.
I phoned to check on one friend who had offered me a dinner. I discovered that a family member who was supposed to be there for Christmas had to cancel because of a quarantine due to some travel for business. I had thanked her earlier saying I was doing some drop offs myself. She offered to help me so we are now cooperating on the drop offs. I do the turkey, veggies, salad, gravy and stuffing for the take out trays for 5 people plus my own; she is doing the cranberry sauce and dessert for all and feels much happier. I drop off her takeout dinner and she adds her contribution to the other drop off dinners plus mine to take home.
I think that it is all more fun when you do this with another and the recipients also feel cherished. All good!
I found two pints of peppermint ice cream at the grocery store. Am enjoying it now. It is a premium brand made with cream and no high fructose etc.
the peppermint is light in it, but that’s fine with me.
Excellent. No Christmas is complete without peppermint coffee, cocoa, or--in your case--peppermint ice cream.
Life is quite amazing or rather people are amazing. So far, I have had four offers to drop off a Christmas dinner to me.
For a few years, I have hosted a Christmas morning brunch for solos etc. This year I offered to drop a Christmas greeting with muffins for a brunch and a full Christmas dinner and have 3 who said yes please. Ontario is going into complete lockdown on Boxing Day due to rising covid numbers. Life keeps changing the planning arrangements as a result.
I phoned to check on one friend who had offered me a dinner. I discovered that a family member who was supposed to be there for Christmas had to cancel because of a quarantine due to some travel for business. I had thanked her earlier saying I was doing some drop offs myself. She offered to help me so we are now cooperating on the drop offs. I do the turkey, veggies, salad, gravy and stuffing for the take out trays for 5 people plus my own; she is doing the cranberry sauce and dessert for all and feels much happier. I drop off her takeout dinner and she adds her contribution to the other drop off dinners plus mine to take home.
I think that it is all more fun when you do this with another and the recipients also feel cherished. All good!
That's great!
For the past 5 years I've received a Christmas card from someone I met while working part-time. She was also an employee, but I never actually worked "with" her. I've only spoken to her maybe 3 times. Her cards always include a family portrait. So weird. I'm such a nobody to her it makes me wonder just how many cards she sends out at .55 a shot. Plus all those snapshots she has printed. I've never met her kids. Sweet, but....
happystuff
12-23-20, 1:00pm
Going against the grain here, but I did send out cards this year and have also received many. I like them.
Doing Christmas dinner at home - pretty much a repeat of Thanksgiving in both menu and people. Will be taking a plate to the elderly woman next door. I'll definitely be enjoying the time off work.
Speaking of ice cream, one of my pet peeves is that almost all of them now add thickeners and gums. Those things upset my tummy "biome." When I read up on the whys, it said that all dairy products are now ultra pasteurized and so thickeners are added to make the texture more appealing. I bought the cleanest one I could find since DH is baking an apple pie today and though it didn't used to, it now contains guar gum.
If I had the room for it, I'd buy an ice cream maker with a compressor, and make my own. Most of the ice cream flavors I prefer are either hard to find or discontinued, like Mayan Chocolate and Lemon Custard.
If I had the room for it, I'd buy an ice cream maker with a compressor, and make my own. Most of the ice cream flavors I prefer are either hard to find or discontinued, like Mayan Chocolate and Lemon Custard.
My ice cream maker is similar to a mixmaster which uses a freezer bowl that sits in my freezer. It takes about 20 minutes for the cooled custard to turn into soft ice cream which is poured a container to harden in the freezer. DH gave it to me years ago for Christmas and it is still working very well. Would this work for you?
https://www.amazon.ca/KitchenAid-KICA0WH-Cream-Maker-Attachment/dp/B0002IES80/ref=sr_1_13?crid=EE6Y9Z1O72EJ&dchild=1&keywords=ice+cream+maker+cuisinart&qid=1608745034&sprefix=ice+cream+maker%2Caps%2C369&sr=8-13
ApatheticNoMore
12-23-20, 1:54pm
Speaking of ice cream, one of my pet peeves is that almost all of them now add thickeners and gums. Those things upset my tummy "biome." When I read up on the whys, it said that all dairy products are now ultra pasteurized and so thickeners are added to make the texture more appealing. I bought the cleanest one I could find since DH is baking an apple pie today and though it didn't used to, it now contains guar gum.
Haagen Dazs is usually very clean for a mainstream brand, nothing weird, unless they are now adding things, definitely didn't used to. I like Strauss Family Creamery but doubt it's sold outside of California. I actually eat very little ice cream, and yet fantasize all the time about getting an ice cream maker.
My ice cream maker is similar to a mixmaster which uses a freezer bowl that sits in my freezer. It takes about 20 minutes for the cooled custard to turn into soft ice cream which is poured a container to harden in the freezer. DH gave it to me years ago for Christmas and it is still working very well. Would this work for you?
https://www.amazon.ca/KitchenAid-KICA0WH-Cream-Maker-Attachment/dp/B0002IES80/ref=sr_1_13?crid=EE6Y9Z1O72EJ&dchild=1&keywords=ice+cream+maker+cuisinart&qid=1608745034&sprefix=ice+cream+maker%2Caps%2C369&sr=8-13
I have one of those, but no room in my freezer; thus the compressor model. But I have no room for that on my counter. Oh well.
frugal-one
12-23-20, 2:52pm
Did a Christmas quiz today and found a Christmas character I never heard of.... have you?
During the Christmas season, he punishes children who have misbehaved?
Scroll down.
Answer: Krampus (half goat, half demon)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krampus
DH says it is actually Donald Trump. haha
I don't know if you have Schwan's in your area, IL, and it's probably too late for delivery now, but perhaps for next year? https://www.schwans.com/product/peppermint-stick-ice-cream/51730
Did a Christmas quiz today and found a Christmas character I never heard of.... have you?
During the Christmas season, he punishes children who have misbehaved?
Scroll down
Answer: Krampus (half goat, half demon)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krampus
DH says it is actually Donald Trump. haha
Yes, I’ve actually heard of Krampus.
I think Grimm had a Krampus episode, and I have a couple of eBooks featuring him.
rosarugosa
12-23-20, 4:40pm
Did a Christmas quiz today and found a Christmas character I never heard of.... have you?
During the Christmas season, he punishes children who have misbehaved?
Scroll down.
Answer: Krampus (half goat, half demon)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krampus
DH says it is actually Donald Trump. haha
Oh yes, I like Krampus (although I don't like DJT)!
Chicken lady
12-24-20, 9:44am
I went all in on the ice cream - I don’t just have a compressor ice cream maker, I also have goats for raw milk and chickens for the fresh eggs. ��
I buy my sugar and vanilla though....
one of my students has a Krampus figure instead of an elf on the shelf. His parents told him if he’s bad it will come to life and eat him. He seemed delighted.
rosarugosa
12-24-20, 10:22am
I went all in on the ice cream - I don’t just have a compressor ice cream maker, I also have goats for raw milk and chickens for the fresh eggs. ��
I buy my sugar and vanilla though....
one of my students has a Krampus figure instead of an elf on the shelf. His parents told him if he’s bad it will come to life and eat him. He seemed delighted.
Sounds like my kind of family!
happystuff
12-24-20, 1:19pm
I've heard of Krampus. I enjoy hearing about all the different holiday characters and traditions.
dado potato
12-24-20, 1:47pm
Holiday stress is universal, according to a blurb I received in my email from the community clinic. According to this article all cultures have their special days, and the observance of special days increases stress. They say the incidence of heart attacks in the USA increases 33% around Thanksgiving. I can see my stress level rising as Christmas comes near.... the happy stress of anticipating 2 Facetime calls later today, the anxiety about a certain present that may need to be returned, etc. I had to dig out from a snowstorm this morning. But I don't think my stress level is anything like the "Griswold's Christmas" (Chevy Chase).
Anyway, I will pass along the warning/advice from the clinic:
Accept that stress tends to increase for everyone during the holidays. Manage your stress. Get some exercise.
Indulge in food and beverages in moderation.
Take your meds consistently.
iris lilies
12-24-20, 3:05pm
And recognize that much of the normal holiday stress is put on you by you.
That isn’t so true in year 2020 the year of high stress for many people. And then for some of us, it’s a low stress year because we have fewer things we have to go out and do in the world.
Amazingly, I’ve had less stress with my 6 month long and ongoing covid experience, than I did working as a nurse manager/director. I had a huge and all-consuming job. I’m realizing just how much, now that I’m away from it.
This Christmas is very low stress for us. No travel. No visitors. No jobs. Just a few zoom calls with family.
I feel that I’m supposed to be stressed about the upcoming outcome of my disability application and my ongoing symptoms of long covid. But I’m not. After working in a pandemic, and then hoping not to die in July and August, everything else is minor.
Read and sang at Christmas Eve service tonight as well as a pre-Christmas service last night. Husband and wife choir directors are in their early 70s and needed another voice. Lots of readings at these services, and I’m the usual workhorse reader. We sort of plain chant our readings and I’m darned loud, which is especially helpful with streamed services. A few elderly friends said they could really hear me last night!
iris lilies
12-25-20, 1:05am
Amazingly, I’ve had less stress with my 6 month long and ongoing covid experience, than I did working as a nurse manager/director. I had a huge and all-consuming job. I’m realizing just how much, now that I’m away from it.
This Christmas is very low stress for us. No travel. No visitors. No jobs. Just a few zoom calls with family.
I feel that I’m supposed to be stressed about the upcoming outcome of my disability application and my ongoing symptoms of long covid. But I’m not. After working in a pandemic, and then hoping not to die in July and August, everything else is minor.
That is very good news!
Teacher Terry
12-25-20, 1:22am
Tammy, your experience really puts things into perspective. Glad you are not stressed out.
Merry Christmas everyone!
In S Ontario, we received a lovely batch of snow overnight that I need to clear off my driveway but it is so pretty especially on the trees. I did all my 5 takeout Christmas turkey dinners yesterday due to the winter storm moving in. I am glad that I did. It was fun to do but I have no desire to become a chef. A friend had fun collecting and donating a dessert tray to each takeout which made it even more special. It included 2 small pieces of pie, shortbread, chocolates, and a 95 mask.
Enjoy your day and wishing each of you a positive 2021!
happystuff
12-25-20, 11:22am
Merry Christmas, everyone. Wishing everyone a day of happiness and joy. :)
Merry Christmas to all. Here’s hoping the coming year will be less horrible.
Teacher Terry
12-25-20, 3:16pm
Have a great Xmas everyone!
rosarugosa
12-25-20, 6:13pm
Happy holidays, my SLF friends. I definitely prefer the peaceful low-key holidays (although certainly not the covid part). We've been doing it this way for the past several years, so we don't need a pandemic to accomplish this. Hanging out with DH and having rack of lamb with salad for supper. DH baked cookies today and we dropped some off to Mom, who was happy to see us, and she is always happy to see cookies. It's almost 60 degrees here, although rainy and dreary.
LDAHL: I'm even going to go so far as to hope that 2021 is a very good year! Maybe it's just the chardonnay talking. :)
dado potato
12-26-20, 2:39am
We survived Christmas!
Happy Boxing Day.
happystuff
12-26-20, 10:52am
All-in-all, it was a nice Christmas. Even had fun with the grab bag over skype. (Theme was "whimsy" and I'm getting a new couch pillow of a giraffe wearing glasses. :~) )
All-in-all, it was a nice Christmas. Even had fun with the grab bag over skype. (Theme was "whimsy" and I'm getting a new couch pillow of a giraffe wearing glasses. :~) )
How did this grab bag idea work? Sounds like a fun idea. My family and I had our first family FaceTime since now we all have an Apple product for making it possible. I used my iPhone and forgot to flip it back and to hold it at the proper angle - some learning process involved. I am so tempted to buy an iPad but cannot make up my mind between an iPad10 (2020) and an iPad Air 2020.
catherine
12-26-20, 2:32pm
I learned I can survive Christmas with five bodies' worth of people and presents and food and two dogs in a 680 sq ft house.
We had a wonderful time, and really sacrificed nothing except for the presence of a few other family members due to COVID.
happystuff
12-27-20, 12:34am
How did this grab bag idea work? Sounds like a fun idea. My family and I had our first family FaceTime since now we all have an Apple product for making it possible. I used my iPhone and forgot to flip it back and to hold it at the proper angle - some learning process involved. I am so tempted to buy an iPad but cannot make up my mind between an iPad10 (2020) and an iPad Air 2020.
Actually, it was pretty easy. Being the organizer, I pulled names of participants out of a hat and assigned each person a number - people only knew their number, not anyone else's (except me, of course). Each person wrapped their gift and took a photo of it with their number visible. All photos were sent to me and put together into a single photo showing all the numbered gifts. That photo of all the gifts was then sent out to each participant. When we got together on skype, I again pulled names from a hat and the person picked the number of the gift from the photo. The next person had the option to "steal" the already selected gift or choose another number. We did this until everyone had a gift.
We offered the option to have the gifts opened - thereby revealing who bought which gift - or just mailing the gifts to the recipients and letting them open when they received them. Hopefully my explanation doesn't sound complicated as it was really easy and worked out well. It was fun to continue on that holiday event even though we weren't in the same room.
Teacher Terry
12-27-20, 10:55am
Happy, that sounds fun. We have done that in person and sometimes after it’s over people trade gifts.
happystuff
12-27-20, 11:44am
Happy, that sounds fun. We have done that in person and sometimes after it’s over people trade gifts.
Yes, we actually did include some trading. It was definitely worth the little bit of effort to pull it off.
Actually, it was pretty easy. Being the organizer, I pulled names of participants out of a hat and assigned each person a number - people only knew their number, not anyone else's (except me, of course). Each person wrapped their gift and took a photo of it with their number visible. All photos were sent to me and put together into a single photo showing all the numbered gifts. That photo of all the gifts was then sent out to each participant. When we got together on skype, I again pulled names from a hat and the person picked the number of the gift from the photo. The next person had the option to "steal" the already selected gift or choose another number. We did this until everyone had a gift.
We offered the option to have the gifts opened - thereby revealing who bought which gift - or just mailing the gifts to the recipients and letting them open when they received them. Hopefully my explanation doesn't sound complicated as it was really easy and worked out well. It was fun to continue on that holiday event even though we weren't in the same room.
I have participated in those with a large group and it was a lot of fun. One man always donated a homemade wooden cutting board which everyone wanted so it moved around the room many times until all the numbers were drawn. The groans when someone had to give it up was hilarious.
Teacher Terry
12-27-20, 1:15pm
That’s funny Razz. One time I wanted what a friend got and he said I could have it if I made a scarf to his specifications which I did:))
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