The View From Mrs. Sundberg's Window

Dipped in Vigor and Rolled in Vim

December 10, 2007

Listened to the show Saturday and it was not bad. I'm catching my breath at the moment. Last week was busy and this week is even more so, but I've been managing just fine. Seems every year about this time I get an energy going that carries me right on into the New Year. It's not a burst of energy, really, and it certainly isn't fleeting. It's as if, early in December, something washes over me, as if I've been dipped in vigor and rolled in vim, and I can't for the life of me fall asleep before midnight.

There's more to it, though, than energy. I seem to have been given another sense. A sixth level of awareness that makes a trip to the grocery store or a visit with a friend more of an adventure or more of a joy than it usually is. I get hungrier and chocolate tastes better and the sky at night is so dang clear. Mr. Sundberg seems funnier than usual, and the kids, well, the kids are both a bit sweeter and a tad less tolerable. Housecleaning goes faster and, frankly, I could bake all night. I look forward to wrapping gifts and the kids coming home from school. I enjoyed, immensely, every moment of the Christmas Program. Good energy, it is, in the darkest of the dark months.

Thing is, just about everything is temporary. Goldfish, anger, caffeine withdrawal and parties. Toothaches, free time, and therapy. Poison ivy, and kissing on Sunday afternoons. Good or bad, there's not much that keeps on going. This is a blessing when it comes to rabies shots, but when it's baking at midnight you're talking about, well, load up on the flour and make sure you've got some eggs. Mr. Frost said it best in his loveliest poem, "Nothing gold can stay." And there you have it, my dear hearts. Tomorrow you may not. So take it all in as best you can, and never a moment regret.

Here's a sweet something to offer up to guests on a cozy December night. Go ahead and double the recipe right off the bat. Serve in fancy little glasses with mint leaves and a plate of Spritz cookies.

MINT CORDIAL

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 c whipping cream
1 C Peppermint Schnapps
2 tsp vanilla

Pour all ingredients into blender. Blend until smooth.
Store in an airtight container in refrigerator.
Shake well before serving. Makes about 4 cups.

Enjoy!

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