Christmas S.O.S.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but it can also be hectic, full of to-dos, and, let’s be honest, pretty stressful. Here are some tips to help lighten the load, along with a couple of recipes and gift ideas.

A couple of recipes, Brie cheese and baked tomatoes, raclette, and some simple gifts for this Christmas

An easy appetizer: Baked Brie with Cherry Tomatoes

Here’s a quick and simple recipe for a delicious appetizer. You’ll need:

• A wheel of Brie cheese (small or large, depending on your event)

• A pack of cherry tomatoes

• Olive oil

• Fine herbs

• Artisan bread, sliced (a baguette, rye loaf, or your favorite type of bread)

Baked Brie cheese with cherry tomatoes

Place the cheese and tomatoes in an oven-safe dish (I used a small cast-iron skillet). Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fine herbs. Bake in the oven (I used a small toaster oven since my portion wasn’t large) until the cheese melts and the tomatoes are roasted. Serve warm with slices of bread.

A simple dinner idea: Homemade Raclette with Swiss Fondue

What you’ll need:

• A boxed fondue mix (available at most supermarkets)

• Large slices of bread (I used a rustic loaf)

• Grapes and other fruits or vegetables that pair well with fondue, like pear or apple slices, bell pepper strips, mushrooms, etc.

• Cold cuts (I used Iberian ham, salami, and turkey ham, but you can choose your favorites—prosciutto, Spanish chorizo, smoked salmon, or even mortadella all work).

Raclette with fondue and cold meats

To prepare, take a slice of bread, spread a little mustard for seasoning if you like, add the cold cuts, and drizzle hot fondue cheese over the top. That’s it! You’ve got a delicious, snack-style dinner ready in no time. Pair it with a salad, a good bottle of wine, and dessert.

Gift ideas:

As I mentioned in a previous post, I love putting together little gift bags to have on hand for family, friends, coworkers, or teachers at my kids’ school. I make these bags using recycled materials, like paper bags, ribbons, and colored paper. I fill them with chocolates, hand creams, keychains, pens, notebooks, or any other small items that come to mind. I cut out shapes like stars, hearts, or Christmas trees on the bags and tie them with a ribbon to seal them. If you enjoy baking, you can also make cookies or brownies and gift little bags of treats. These are thoughtful, small gestures to brighten someone’s holiday season.

Wrap your gifts in an original way with recycled materials

If Christmas is fast approaching and you haven’t finished your shopping yet, here are some tips: try supporting friends or family members who have small businesses and sell items you can give as gifts, like jewelry, handmade crafts, baked goods, or even clothing from a boutique. For example, a cozy sweater or a nice scarf is always a great option.

Personally, I love gifting books. Here are a few recommendations, all fiction and easy to read, perfect for curling up with a warm drink and a blanket this winter:

1. “Maldita Roma” by Santiago Posteguillo

This author has given us amazing novels about the Roman Empire. If you know someone who loves this historical period—which has gained popularity with the upcoming Gladiator II movie—this is a great choice.

2. “The Idea of You” by Robinne Lee

Recently adapted into a film starring Anne Hathaway, this novel may seem like a light and fun read, but it carries a lot of depth. It’s short and easy to get through, making it a great pick if you’re looking to have a good time—or to help someone else enjoy one. After reading it, you could even plan a movie night together!

3. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig

I recommended this book in a previous post as well. It’s an easy and quick read that leaves you thinking afterward—perfect for the season and the approaching new year.

4. “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara

A beautifully written, deeply moving, and powerful novel. It’s longer than the others, but it’s a real pleasure to read. Even if it takes a couple of months to finish, like it did for me, it’s absolutely worth it.

Finding joy in Christmas:

Christmas can be quite stressful for many people—like me, as an introvert—but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it. I’ve learned to make the most of this season through little things I love, like creative activities. Making gift bags relaxes me; I enjoy crafts and making someone happy with a small gesture. Similarly, I adore simple recipes. Since I’m not a big fan of cooking, having quick, easy, and delicious recipes helps me avoid some of the holiday overwhelm.

As for gifts, I’ve learned to relax and give things I would enjoy receiving—cozy items like sweaters, a fun and easy-to-read book, a box of chocolates or cookies, or even a small plant. There are so many lovely and affordable ways to spread joy.

There’s no magic cure for holiday stress, and with all the commitments, shopping, work, and year-end chaos, it can feel like madness. But even in the midst of all that, you can find small moments to savor. And why not give yourself a gift too? Treat yourself to a tasty snack, a cup of hot chocolate, a good book, and a quiet moment on the couch.

Happy holidays, and see you next year!