“I thought I’d wrap myself up. Find a big ol’ box, get delivered by mail truck. Thought of bringing mistletoe, hang it over my head, make you kiss me in the falling snow. I thought of seven swimming swans, golden rings, calling birds, leaping lords all across the lawn.
Thought you might like a couple turtle doves, just a little reminder that you’re my one and only true love. I always think that way, got my shopping done by Labor Day, all wrapped up with a little matching tag and bow. Got my cards all done like I said I would, got goodies for the whole darn neighborhood and a gift for you each day when there’s twelve to go…..
It’s like this every year. You deserve a lot more credit here. You always show me up on Christmas Day. Well, I oughta be a little bit more like you, instead of running around, so much to do…gotta relax and take in the holiday.”
Sound familiar to anyone? Ever feel a sort of frantic hysteria after Thanksgiving? Like you want to try to make everything perfect for everyone around you, even if it totally kills you off? Nancy Hanson, one of our favorite local musicians, wrote this song called “All Wrapped Up,” which is from her Christmas album called, funny enough, “All Wrapped Up.” (One of our very favorite Christmas albums, btw.)
I have to admit, sometimes I get a little bit like that. Mildly neurotic and hysterical. And usually Drew strolls in at the last minute, totally calm and happy, with the perfect thing to say, the most thoughtful, meaningful, simple gift. I def need to be a little bit more like him.
Well, think of this Cranberry Wassail as the perfect, simple drink! It takes about two seconds to prepare, a little time to simmer, and no swimming swans or golden rings needed to impress. Just a yummy, hot drink that’ll warm you from head to toe. Really quite perfect. Cranberry Wassail. Cheers!
Ingredients
- 8 cups cranberry juice cocktail
- 1 orange
- 1 apple
- 1 pear
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Measure juice into large pot.
- Roughly slice apple, orange and pear.
- Add sliced fruit and all other ingredients to the pot.
- Simmer 15 minutes.
- Strain and serve hot. Garnish with fresh cranberries and cinnamon sticks, if desired.
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3 Comments
Uhhhh this sounds amazing. We’re definitely making this ASAP!
I don’t see cranberries in the list of ingredients
We use cranberry juice (since it’s a little sweeter) and just garnish with fresh berries. Have a happy holiday season!