Granny Snaps 2015
Christmas season, the big commercial giant, is upon us. As is my habit, I stop and ponder how I will celebrate this year. What a question to ponder as there seems to be so much anxiety around us, both closeby and in the world. I am usually nearly shut down by the blatant commercial quality of the American version of this holiday. But, somehow, this year that seems to be a trivial concern next to the crises in which our world and planet finds itself. The wonderful thing about choosing not to react immediately and assess the whole first, is just that, we have a choice. At this moment, this year, I am going to choose to move on from all the anxiety and worry. Although I will not embrace the commercial spirit, I will take on an attitude of good cheer. I may not be able to affect a huge change in the big picture, but, I can choose not to add to the negativity. It will have to be enough to add some cheer in my own circle with the hope the good cheer will ripple out.
All this said, what next? I will pause and consider what is important and discard what is not. Today has been my day to start the ritual of Granny Snap making, my Mother’s special contribution to the holiday cheer. I have written about them before, I am sure. All her friends and family loved receiving them any time of year, but they especially looked for them during holiday time. She always embellished the recipe and when she shared the recipe with others she did not share the change. I always laugh remembering that fact. Fast forward to today.
I, very carefully, made the dough, which has to chill, and put it in the refrigerator. Next, I moved on to make Mother’s raw cranberry relish recipe. After chopping the oranges, apples, and cranberries I looked for the sugar. I had pre-measured it and had just the right amount for the cookies and relish. The container was empty and I then realized what I had done. STOP-LAUGH-MOVE ON! I had put all the sugar, that is double the amount required, in the cookies. Luckily I had enough other ingredients to make a double recipe of cookies and proceeded to supplement the first batch of dough. Much better! I laughed because it was as if my Mom was here looking over my shoulder saying, “Don’t get to cocky! It is MY recipe.” Last year I thought I had finally gotten them just right; we will see how these turn out. In any event, we will enjoy them and remember my Mom and her infectious love of this holiday season, spreading good cheer.
I choose to move on and discard any negativity this year. Instead, I will continue each day to immerse myself in the beautiful lights of the season, spreading what is positive and beautiful.
PS. By the way, the Granny Snaps turned out perfectly! Thanks, Mom!