Holiday Hooch

Just had to post a link to this adorable holiday cocktail, the Mistletoe and Holly. I'm not sure how it tastes—I'm somewhat skeptical about the flavor combination of cranberry juice, peppermint schnapps, and matcha powder—but it looks so horribly festive that I'd be tempted to give it a whirl anyway.

Green Giant

No, I'm not just referring to the color of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree—this year it'll be strung with 30,000 LEDs to make for a more energy-efficient holiday season. It's a start....

I'm Dreaming of a Green Christmas

How to have an environmentally friendly Christmas has never been a particular concern of mine. To be frank, I've never even considered it before. But after reading this informative Slate article, I have resolved to be more aware of the holiday decisions I make and their consequences. Some of their suggestions are very easy to follow—I already combine shipping as much as possible, for example. Not only does it save on fuel, it saves me kizash. I'll buy some LED light strands this year and stay away from sparkly wrapping paper (well, as much as possible). Fortunately, I've been inadvertently green for years now thanks to my entire family's practice of reusing gift bags and Mylar wrap/tissue paper as long as possible. (Seriously, we have to coerce my grandmother into finally ditching a piece of Mylar that's wrinkled beyond recognition.) Other Slate suggestions, such as using Sellotape, are good, but pretty hard to follow. No problem if you're in the U.K., but here in the U.S. there is Scotch tape and knockoff Scotch tape and that's it. Good luck finding Sellotape. Though Berkeley is just crunchy enough that I may be able to scrounge up some. I'll have to check.

For Your Pie-Hole

Okay, as it's the day before Thanksgiving, I'm starting to feel a bit festive. I think I shall begin the annual holiday gift guide in earnest on Monday. But here's one little suggestion in advance:

For anyone with a pronounced sweet tooth and an undying love of both pie and chocolate, the Godiva American Pies Collection is definitely the way to go. It's not cheap, but what is?

Happy Toikey Day (in advance).