I haven’t blogged in days. My daughter has been sick with dengue fever. I’ve been concentrating on my food orders that are overwhelming (I am not complaining). Been trying to juggle events, obligations and deadlines. But let me share. Christmas is still my favourite season and I make sure I enjoy it and don’t get caught up in the mad rush.
I grew up in a family that made Christmas a big deal. We had our tree up by the the first week of November, decorated meticulously. My cousins and I even had our own personalised tree ornament based on our personalities and favourite things (I have carried this tradition over with my kids). We would drink eggnog on the weekends and marshmallow and whipped cream topped hot chocolate, with crushed peppermint candy cane sprinkles. Candy canes were in all corners of my grandparents home which made us cousins ultra hyper since we would keep popping them into our mouths, resulting in lots of energetic laughs. Gift opening was a big deal. While the kids sat around the tree, the adults would announce really loudly whose turn it was to open their gift while we all waited in anticipation.
The adult was usually Santa Claus (who was my Lolo or an uncle). Simbang gabi was usually completed and whoever tagged along with the grandparents got a price. My Lola, who I call Nani, would set up a beautiful “belen” with a baby Jesus made of ivory we weren’t allowed to touch, but I would be around it a lot as my Lolo would make me pray w him every time we passed it. It became ingrained in my mind and heart that the true meaning of Christmas was about Jesus and simply giving thanks. I’ve gotten carried away with my Christmas memories, so let me get to the point of this post and share a few things with all of you.
Through the years, I’ve managed to devise a scheme that keeps me from feeling tired and losing sight of the true meaning of Christmas. Here are a few tips I’ve found very useful. First would be getting my gifts out by the last week of November. I find this very gratifying because I see the appreciation of even the simplest gifts. Unlike when it’s all lumped up in the few days leading to Christmas. Second, I like to cook up a storm and give what I make, making the gift more personal. It also turns out to be more economical because it’s well thought of, planned and scheduled.
I end up saving time, energy, resources and gas (from delivering strategically!) Third would be to make Christmas memories, whether you’re single or married, with kids or without kids. Plan and create traditions with family, friends, your partner and children. Looking back on Christmas memories gives us such a warm feeling that will last a lifetime. Take loads of pictures!
Here are some unique finds. Some, I’ve gotten for myself and given to friends (Pottery Barn novelties), some I’ve been given to try (turkey and Amanda Tengco’s goodies) and the others have been constant favourites (Expertcare’s soaps). The rest, I just find pretty and luxe!
pottery barn wine chiller and fur wine bag (a big hit with the girlfriends) sold separately
festive martini glasses from pottery barn i would use all year round not only for martini’s but for cocktails or dessert!
pottery barn’s crabby name/place card holders for sit down dinners…and brunches… and lunches…
Bob and Ninay’s roast turkey with cherry sausage stuffing. comes w mashed potatoes, gravy and cranberry.
this was the main attraction during our thanksgiving dinner. everything was in the buffet,except for this. tasty, juicy, moist and reasonable! call 0918-909-8850 0r 02-984-0065 for orders, three days ahead.
they even tell you what to do with leftover turkey! Belle is Bob’s and Ninay’s daughter
Amanda Tengco’s basket of home made goodies. her christmas baskets include almond muffins, granola, chocolate pecan cookies and artisanal coffee. you can also order them separately. basket is P1,580
individual orders of muffins and granola. her products are very sophisticated in taste. different from the usual and a hit with discerning palates
breakfast with Amanda’s yummies
Amanda’s chocolate pecan cookie and coffee. call to order (0917)554-3862
phina’s little factory (expert care philippines) hand made soaps. made with passion and lots of love. pure vegetable glycerine soaps, gentle and nurturing on the skin. i’ve been using this for quite some time, cuddles is my favourite! all very effective.
christmas soaps that are hand stamped, hand painted and detailed
earth friendly&beautifully packaged. Phina’s Littlle Factory is on Facebook, pm her and instagram @phinaslittlefactory, pr contact her dealers www.seektheuniqu.com, 2reddotboutique 09175298474, The Green Company 17D DPL Bldg. M.Paterno st. San Juan 09176232287 or 02-5315201
This about sums it all up. Happy Holidays and remember, don’t stress!