Self-care through Holiday Treats and sharing with friends.

Self-care comes in a plethora of ways to different people. 

Self-care is defined often as a noun, with meanings that include: 

and the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress."

I think rather, self-care is a verb, it is a doing action. It is actively, touching base with yourself and then adapting, correcting, adopting, and practicing activities that give you a boost and a sense of ease.  Circular in nature, like many things, it's a continuous flow that needs constant adjustments. 

One way, that naturally has that effect comes with the making and sharing of Holiday Meals and Snacks. Let me just clarify, as a mother of 4, when I think of meals, joy  and self care is not what is a top of mind, rather chaos, getting things in that everyone will eat and moving on the next activity. This is not what I am referring to in this post. Here I am thinking of a meal or a treat, that triggers memories and joy through the action of making, smelling, tasting and sharing with others.

Growing up in Trinidad, the Christmas season, brings with it many traditional meals, of baking black cake (fruit rum cake), making pastelles, and gingerbeer to name a few. To this date, my mom, uses a recipe for black cake passed down, from my great grandmother. It is not so much the cake, but the whole atmosphere, it forces me to slow down, to take a moment to chat and to spend some time with other, to stick my finger to my mother's dismay in the batter and even licking the spoon. Tasting gingerbeer brings me back to my grandfather's house, where I can instantly be transported next to his lanky presence as he prepares, tests and serves friends and family his masterpiece.  That feeling is priceless and sure does recharge my self-care batteries. 

I hope in the business of the Holiday season, that you take sometime to charge your batteries, to care for yourself, whether it be reading a book or preparing or sharing a meal with friends. Balance off the business with things that revitalize your spirit. 

I will leave you with this fun Holiday snack that I enjoy making with my kids and that they enjoy sharing with their friends. You may add any accoutrements that you see fit!

Candy Cane Popcorn

Ingredients: 

1/2 cup unpopped popcorn

4 ounces vanilla-flavored confectioners' coating (or white chocolate if you prefer), or as needed

6 Peppermint Candy Canes 

Add any other accoutrements 

Some ideas: M&Ms

Pretzels (for a little added saltiness and crunch

Smarties 

Mini Marshmallows

Kisses 

can also add drizzle melted chocolate ..etc. etc.

Directions: 

1. Pop popcorn, remove any unpopped kernels and add to a large bowl

2. Remove candy canes from packaging, place in a ziplock bag. Use a rolling pin to crush the candy canes. Add to popcorn. 

3. Melt vanilla based confectioners' coating and pour over popcorn and crushed candy canes. 

4. Add any other goodies, let cool and then break apart and enjoy!!!