Notes from December 3, 2009

I just walked by someone’s cubicle and the sweet, crisp scent of fresh evergreen was intoxicating. Oh how I long for warm cozy fires, hot chocolate in giant mugs and mounds of whipped cream, Christmas carols and pretty lights.

It’s December 3 and my life is practically void of Christmas carols. Back at home we have a radio station dedicated solely to holiday music starting December 1 every year. I haven’t found anything like that here…surprising since Islanders begin prepping for Christmas as soon as they close the door on the last trick-or-treaters. This morning I added ‘Feliz Navidad’ to my ringtones hoping to add a dash of Christmas cheer every time someone calls me. Sadly, no one has called me yet.

‘Feliz Navidad’ has been my favorite Christmas carol since I first heard it on the Sesame Street Christmas Special. It will forever remind me of Big Bird and Snuffalufogous ice skating.

Its grey and soggy outside, and what’s left of the light reminds me that its close to quittin’ time. I’m meeting Vibhu for coffee right after work, but more than anything I want hot chocolate and Russian tea cookies like my mom always make this time of year. I wonder if I’ll be able to find any suitable alternative. I just hope I’ll be able to brush my teeth before cozying into the dentist’s chair, a mouth full of coffee and cookie remnants might not be the best way to greet the person who’s about to drill into my teeth.