My spirits of late have been more on par with Ebeneezer Scrooge than my usual over-the-top frothy joy of the holiday season.  Not only have I been missing my friends in New York, the reality of my evaporating funds and consequent panic have all contributed to extinguishing a festive frame of mind.   The clincher came when I realized I didn’t even have enough money to splurge on a Christmas tree this year.  Those of you who know me well and have experienced how much I love the holidays will understand why I was starting to wallow in a wreath of self pity.   But after a “Snap out of it!” email from my friend Carol and a glimmer of hope on the job front, my spirits began to lift.  Sure, I’m probably going to be washing dishes from someone else’s holiday meal, but it’s work, and more importantly money for survival!  Cinder who has not enjoyed the half rations we’ve been on lately is joyful as well.

This morning I found a tiny Christmas tree for three euro at the mercato and this small piece of greenery put the ho ho ho back in my ho-liday.  By the time I reached my house and dug out my Christmas ornaments, I was feeling quite cheery.  I began to look around and to appreciate what I have.  I also noticed how pretty my town looks.  Everything is decked out in its holiday finery, houses have wreaths and lights, and vendors are busy selling poinsettias and holiday greenery.  It all feels quite old fashioned and…well, like Christmas.

I still miss my friends and am sad not to be able to do much baking this year, but I’m here, I’m living my dream and I just have to appreciate what I’ve accomplished over these last eight months.  And if you think about old Scrooge, he too turned out okay in the end…God Bless Us, Everyone!

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