Moon Age Holiday-dream

For years we hosted a “Tropical Winter” shindig, frothy fruity drinks the menu and tacky holiday sweaters the dress code. Sparked by an Actually Huizenga song, alluding to global warming, the event served as a ridiculous “adulthood” re-imagining of an alternate reality “holiday party”, no skimping on the sweets and treats. Alongside maraschino cherries and flamingo swizzle sticks in kitschy cups full of rum punch shimmering in pulsing party lights, Hummingbird Cupcakes, a pecan spice cake with pineapple and coconut frosting, and Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip were staples of our Southeastern nostalgic indulgence. Savoring Snickerdoodle space cakes and the sugar high of a close-knit congregation sparked seasonal happiness and, truth be told, such simplicity would still stand as incredibly fulfilling and heartfelt during the usual festive chaos of December.

Yet once again, we are just Two this Holiday.

It can be bittersweet to re-invent a small scale Wintry togetherness. It also can be a relief from the annual routine of larger gatherings and hyper-social activity. Disappointment and relief can exist in change of plans. Giving oneself a break from expectation and presentation is vital in order to (once again) attend to possible future financial hardship and the hyper-vigilance of stability for early 2022 (employment, housing, food, medical needs). Facing…