Mrs. Claus Blog: Tidying Up and Potluck Planning
Hello, my darlings!
Today has been a busy one here at the North Pole. I spent the morning tidying up the house, making sure everything is in its place before the real hustle and bustle of the day begins. There’s something peaceful about starting the day with a clean home, especially as Christmas draws closer. It sets the tone for all the wonderful moments ahead.
Christmas Church Traditions
In addition to cleaning, I’ve been helping the folks at church finalize the schedule for our Christmas Cantata. Many families around the world enjoy their celebrations on Christmas Eve, but with Santa’s work that night, we’ve always found that our Christmas church service is best held on Christmas evening. It’s become a beautiful tradition for us all at the North Pole and the perfect way to reflect on the season’s true meaning.
The Annual Potluck Debate
We’ve also started planning the menu for our Christmas gathering. This often stirs up a little debate, as everyone seems to have their own idea of what would make the perfect theme for the evening. Over the years, we’ve done so many themes that it’s hard to keep track of them all.
There was the year we tried a BBQ theme—something we only did once. Santa had far too many ribs, and instead of the start of his much-needed 48 hour sleep after the potluck, he spent the night battling indigestion. Another year, we tried an oriental potluck, but it left Santa and the elves feeling like they hadn’t quite had a proper meal. I might have been to blame for that, as I went a bit overboard with the rice!
One year, Mrs. Keller, our sweet storekeeper, suggested a Hawaiian theme. While we all love Hawaiian food, I was a bit concerned it might tempt some of our more mischievous neighbors to turn the potluck into a full luau! Though we kept it festive, it reminded me how important it is to keep the focus on what really matters.
Keeping It Simple: The Joy of an Open Potluck
What I enjoy most is an open potluck, where everyone brings a dish that’s close to their heart. When we focus too much on themes, the true spirit of our gathering can sometimes get lost. Santa always reminds us that Christmas is about Jesus and his love and blessing coming to this earth all those Christmas’s ago. So open potlucks keep us focused on each other, the purpose of the fellowship and of course the reason for the season.
Still, there are always a few who want to suggest themes each year, and I understand the appeal. It’s part of the fun. But I make sure to encourage everyone to bring something special they’ve made with care. By the end, everyone is excited to share their favorite dish, and it creates a wonderful sense of community.
Favorite Dishes and Cherished Recipes
Personally, I always look forward to the dishes made by others. Mrs. Simpson’s fresh hot rolls are an absolute delight, and Mr. Smidtz’s potato salad, made from his grandmother’s recipe, is always a hit. No matter how many times I try to recreate it, it never tastes quite as good as when he makes it himself. What about you? Do you have a favorite dish you like to bring to potlucks, or is there one you always look forward to someone else making? If you’d like, share your recipe in the comments—I’d love to know what makes your gatherings special
Cozy Moments with Jingles and Bell
Well, my dears, I must return to my cleaning. I did take a moment earlier to snap a photo of Jingles, who was curled up in the bedroom, and later I found him and Bell by the fire in the sewing room, nestled among part of our Christmas globe collection. They certainly know how to enjoy a cozy moment.
Until next time,
Mrs. Claus
