What does Christmas mean to you?

Christmas is simply a feeling. It is not so much about the gifts anymore at this age, but rather about the time spent with family. A feeling of being safe. A moment to breathe easy, a time of relaxation that mainly revolves around delicious food. Enjoy the smell of the Christmas tree and the beauty of its lite candles in the dark. Admire the gentle snow on the ground. Listen to the words of your favourite Christmas carol and take the time to make someone else smile. Be thankful. I know I am and I try not to take anything for granted. If anything, today is the day to do something good for someone else. As mentioned already, we bought lots of the things to the salvation army a couple of days ago, it’s the least we could do. Find joy in the ordinary. It doesn’t have to be big, it is the thought that counts. Give a couple of more kisses to your loved ones or bring a fresh cup of coffee to bed. Sleep long with a full stomach, it feels good. We received a wonderful homemade food basket from my sister-in-law and brother before Christmas. It was a kind gesture with lots of effort behind it (thank you P&M), it’s a warm feeling to know, you’ve been thought about.

Before we head over to the families, Mr. N and I have spent our morning around the fireplace in woolen socks, drinking warm glögi (mulled wine) and enjoying a peaceful moment together. We’ve exchanged a couple of gifts and made a delicious fig based breakfast. I wish everybody a peaceful and joyous holiday xxx

Homemade  Apple Clementine Glögi

I woke up much earlier than Mr. N and began Christmas by lighting a couple of candles and making some non-alcholic mulled wine. It’s a great substitute for tea in the evening and gives you that holiday feeling instantly.  You need good quality apple juice that you gentle simmer in a saucepan. To this, add a cinnamon stick and a couple of cloves and star anise. Then add some clementine slices (remember to wash them well) and their leaves into the juice. I didn’t add any sugar, but you can add some at this point. Place a lid onto the saucepan and turn the heat off and let it intensify in flavour from a half an hour to an hour. Re-heat the glögi when served. You can add some apple cider/vodka/white wine/rum to the juice if you want a more festive drink for the evening!