It doesn't really feel like the holidays until that first slushy, semi-ground-covering snow falls. Until then, it does not seem appropriate to unpack the decorations, tune into the Christmas radio stations or get cracking on that Christmas shopping. I really like to rationalize waiting until it is far too late to begin my shopping that way (you have full permission to commandeer that excuse). Anyway, dust off that tinsel, throw on your best reindeer-adorned sweater and let's get this party started there's just a hair over three weeks to be as red-and-green as you wanna be.
WATCH THIS
Christmas Specials
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OMG! It is seriously winter.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING
WHAT REALLY GRINDS MY GEARS
Obnoxious Christmas commercials that diminish instead of bolster the holiday spirit. For example: the one pushing bargain shopping for TJ Maxx and Marshall's.
Instead of enticing me to score some great deals on my Christmas presents, it makes me want to knock them down that escalator, silencing them mid-carol as they topple onto each other domino-style, and buy things full price.
HOLIDAY DRINK OF THE WEEK
Quell your Scrooge-like tendencies with a cocktail called the Peppermint Stick. Combine 1 1/2 oz. creme de cacao, 1 oz. cream and 1 oz. peppermint schnapps. Shake well with ice and strain into a glass. Top with whipped cream, chocolate sauce and a cherry.
April Diodato is the OBSERVER Lifestyles editor. Tell her about your glorious Christmas memories and upcoming holiday festivities at adiodato@observertoday.com
