An Old-Fashioned Christmas: Who Doesn’t Want One?

By Michele Robert Poche

Chestnuts roasting on and open fire.
Jack Frost nipping at your nose.
Yuletide carols being sung by a choir.
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.

Nothing conjures up the traditional warmth and spirit of the holidays more than these timeless lyrics coined by Bobs Wells and Mel Tormé back in 1945.  It was a simpler time when tablets were all made of paper, tweeting was merely the sound of happy birds and going viral meant you better get to the doctor quickly.

Yes, technology is a wonderful thing.  But I know I’m not alone when I say that sometimes I’d trade it all for a short glimpse back to yesteryear.  And what better time to take that nostalgic journey than Christmas?

Enter Hometown Moments & Memories 2017, your guide to bringing a good, old-fashioned holiday season to you and yours this special time of year.

How can you turn back the clock?  Here are a few ways to get started.

1. Decorate naturally.  Put aside the overpriced decor from the home improvement store and opt for real greenery for your wreaths, centerpieces and tree.  Accent these items with colorful, aromatic trimmings like pinecones, berries, cinnamon sticks, herbs and seasonal blooms.  Create a popcorn-cranberry garland for your tree (details in this issue).
2. Construct a paper chain countdown to Christmas.  Cut red and green construction paper into 1.5 by 8 inch strips.  Using tape, loop each strip and attach in alternating colors to form a 25-link chain.  Complete before December so links can be removed one by one until the big day.  Display proudly.
3. Welcome visitors.  There was a time when people interacted with one another face to face.  Smiles could be seen, laughter heard and warmth felt.  This season, invite a few friends over, put on a classic holiday crooner (Nat King Cole or Bing Crosby) and enjoy some mulled cider (recipe in this issue) together.
4. Remember the true meaning of Christmas.  Whether or not you’re a religious person, everyone knows that Christmas is not about presents.  Christmas is about family, faith and, most of all, good will toward your fellow man.  Take time to remember others by giving back to those in need in your community and beyond.