The Joy of Christmas

Dec 24, 2022 by Elvira Burgo

“Christmas brings me lots of happiness,” shares my sister, who embraces the holiday with some of the most impressive tree decorations.  Changed yearly, she chooses a particular color based on mood or happenings.  If you are anything like my sister, let me stop and say:  

Sharing your joy of decorating and the season makes me (and others) happy.

During this time of the year, a child’s happiness magnifies in anticipation of Christmas.  At school, students enjoy treats and each other.  Ask a college student what’s good about Christmas, and they’ll say: “going on break.” Another adds: “People getting together.”  

Coming home is heartwarming for families who have not seen each other.   

People around the world have different and unique Christmas traditions.  Mexicans enjoy fireworks, fancy nativity scenes, dancing, Spanish Christmas carols, and candlelit processions.  In Britain, stockings hang at the ends of beds instead of the fireplace.  Many people hit the beach for a barbecue in Australia, where it is hot.  In Iceland, 13 different Santa clauses give children presents.  (Sources: www.gviusa.comwww.goodhousekeeping.com

Christmas parties rock.  Lavish at times, songs like “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” and “Jingle Bell Rock” put me in a festive mood.  A tram conductor’s wild-filled ride and jokes have everyone laughing.  And let me not forget the winter wonderland at the top of the mountain.   

The joy of Christmas is never-ending.  

Here are some jokes to brighten your child’s day (children love jokes).  

Christmas Jokes for Kids

·  What does an elf study in school? 

The elfabet.

·  Why did Santa get a parking ticket on Christmas?  

He left his sleigh in a snow parking zone.

·  Why is Santa so good at karate?

Because he has a black belt.

·  Why does Santa work at the North Pole?

Because the penguins kicked him out of the South Pole.

·  What kind of photos do elves take?

Elfies. 

(Source:  www.listcaboodle.com)  

And for you….here’s an easy recipe.  

I don’t know what it’s called, but let me name it a fruit dessert.  A friend shared it many years ago, and I get many compliments.  I usually make it during the holidays.  There are so many variations… some people add shredded coconut, miniature marshmallows, and other ingredients.  I’ll try others one day and will use some fresh fruit.   

Fruit Dessert Recipe

Ingredients

·  3 cans (15.25 ounces) Dole tropical fruit cocktail (drained)  

These have bigger chunks of fruit like pineapple and papaya.  You can use a traditional fruit cocktail.  If so, use 4 cans (15 ounces) 

·  16 ounces frozen container cool whip (large tub) thawed

·  1 package (3 ounces) of instant pistachio pudding mix (small box)

·  1 cup of chopped nuts (if preferred, such as pistachios or pecans) - I use walnuts.  

Directions

·  In a large mixing bowl, stir pistachio pudding mix and cool whip with a spoon until the mix is dissolved and green.

·  Add cans of tropical fruit cocktail and mix.

·  Fold in nuts.  Sprinkle some on top to make it look cute. 

·  Refrigerate for a couple of hours.  A day would be ideal.  

·  Recipe will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. 

 

Enjoy. I wish you a joy-filled Christmas.

Thanks for reading,

Elvira