jiacast

[jiacast]

Make Cut-Out Snowflakes Day

I rush to the window, where I press my face and hands against the cold glass, fogging the world's view of the gentle white flakes drifting down from the sky. The snow covers the ground like powdered sugar on a cake, altering the world's view into a sparkling wonderland.

“Look!” I shout with excitement, contagious. My sister, still with scissors and half a snowflake, comes to me with her glittering eyes. 

“Can we go outside?” She asked, already bouncing on her toes.

Our parents exchange a glance, smiling. “Why not? But bundle up first,” says our mom.

Bursts of activity caused us all to dig out winter coats, hats, scarves, and gloves that had not seen daylight in years. We step out into the crisp night air first, that first sweet crunch underfoot sending a thrill through you. Streetlights floated a gold glow on untrodden snow, making it shimmer with magic.

My sister throws the first snowball, laughing as it explodes against my coat. A full-blown snowball fight starts now with our dad joining in with surprisingly accurate throws. The neighborhood is filled with echoes of laughter as we're chasing each other through the fresh snow.

After some time, I see our mom kneeling down and putting something together in the snow. Curious, I squat down beside her and discover she's making a snowman. “He needs a scarf,” she says, and drapes her own around his neck.

His name should be given; my sister adores making the face with a carrot as his nose. 

"How about Frosty?" Our dad jokes, brushing snow off his gloves. "Or is that too cliché?

Just before anyone can really respond, a particularly large snowflake lands right on my nose and makes me giggle. Looking up, I behold the sky—the vast, endless sky—which is raining snow, and inside my heart wells joy, almost as I have not felt in a long time.

And it is a night that will forever remain imprinted in memory—not just because of the snow but also the warm togetherness, laughing, and the rare magic of sharing something singularly simple yet perfect with my family.

[jiacast]

Boxing Day

This Christmas, it was just a family trip to Hong Kong. It was a nostalgic experience as we returned to places we hadn't seen since 2012, bringing back so many treasured childhood memories. Strolling through the magical streets of Hong Kong Disneyland, discovering the peaceful charm of Ngong Ping Village, and enjoying the stunning views from Victoria Peak felt like a journey back in time. Each moment was special, filled with laughter, wonder, and a deep connection to our past. We snapped countless photos to capture the magic, ensuring these memories will last a lifetime. It was truly a Christmas to cherish!

[jiacast]

Christmas Day

A Calm Christmas Morn

The clock strikes twelve; the cheer is done, Noche Buena beneath the stars was fun. Laughter echoed, hearts were light, As we welcomed Christmas in the night.

The feast now rests, the plates are clear, The house is quiet, the calm is near. The scent of lechon still fills the air, A lingering warmth of love and care.

Morning peeks through the velvet sky, A gentle breeze as time drifts by. No rush, no noise, just peaceful glow, The world adorned in yuletide snow.

With tea in hand, I take my seat, A cozy corner, the calm feels sweet. The tree stands tall, its lights still gleam, A reminder of joy, a Christmas dream.

No need for plans, no place to be, Just the gift of time and serenity. A moment to breathe, to simply stay, A blessing of peace on Christmas Day.

[jiacast]

Christmas Eve

Noche Buena’s Glow

The stars awake in velvet skies, As laughter and warmth begin to rise. A table spread with love and care, Noche Buena calls—come gather there.

A feast aglow with flavors bold, Stories shared, both new and old. Lechón glistens, rich and grand, Beside the rolls, so soft and hand-planned.

Bibingka’s scent, a sweet delight, Halo-halo shining in the night. Rice and stew in hearty bowls, Binding kin in their treasured roles.

Children’s eyes with wonder gleam, As lights around the parol beam. Candles flicker, prayers ascend, Hopes for blessings the heavens send.

It’s not just food, it’s love and grace, A time for family’s warm embrace. Noche Buena, a sacred art, A celebration of the heart.

[jiacast]

Christmas Traditions

This year I'm not going back home for Christmas because of our busy schedules, so here's what we do every Christmas:

1. Noche Buena (Christmas Eve Feast)

A grand family dinner featuring dishes like lechon (roast pig), ham, queso de bola (cheese ball), pancit, and desserts like bibingka and puto bumbong. This year, we're going to invite my father's office mates over to our house.

2. Longest Christmas celebration in the world

Christmas in the Philippines starts as early as September (the “-ber months”) and lasts until January, culminating in the Feast of the Three Kings. This makes the Philippines one of the best countries to celebrate Christmas.

3. Aguinaldo

Ninongs and Ninangs offer their godchildren, or "inaanak," presents with Aguinaldo during the Christmas season. These presents might be cash or tangible goods. This ritual represents affection and care and helps strengthen the link between godparents and godchildren.

4. Christmas parties

When we return from overseas to be with our loved ones, family reunions are one of the greatest joys of the Christmas season. Typically, one's December agenda is jam-packed with trips to various relatives' homes. This year, we'll celebrate from our own home and video call them during Noche Buena.

5. Christmas Shopping

This year, we've shopped for our friends and decided to send the gifts before our Noche Buena.

With that, these are my Filipino Christmas traditions that my family and I do every year

[jiacast]

Winter is coming

This is what I would envision for myself stepping into this snow situation:

Day 1: Assess the Situation

First, ensure safety for my family or neighbors. Check for old residents and those who will need some immediate help.

Supply emergency supplies, such as food, water, flashlights, and blankets.

Use my phone or a radio to stay abreast of the situation, weather forecast, and rescue operations.

Day 2: Form a Community Team

Bring Robust Neighbors Together and Form a Small Power-Winning Team

Assign Roles: Shoveling, Coordinator, and Communicator

Distribution of Shovels, Snow Blowers, and Salt for Clearing Pathways Usual to Important Access.

Day 3: Focus on Accessibility

Clearing paths leading to critical places such as grocery stores, clinics, and shelters is essential.

Door-to-door checks for residents around specific locations: clinics, grocery stores, and shelters.

Identify and clear blocked roads by joint efforts with local government authorities regarding stranded vehicles.

Check for any medications or medicines needed and help organize delivery.

Day 4: Set Up a Warm Shelter

Convert a community hall, school, or church into a heated shelter for those who lost power.

Plug in portable heaters, distribute hot drinks, and offer blankets.

Encourage residents to pool resources such as spare generators and non-perishable foods.

Day 5: Spread the Word

Update the communities by utilizing social media and the local radio regarding safety measures, cleared paths, and any necessary assistance available.

Coordinate with various authorities in order to accelerate rescue and relief operations.

Day 6: Celebrate the Community Spirit

Arrange a get-together after the storm once everyone's safety is assured. A competition for drinking hot cocoa and making snowmen could help lift spirits.

Consider how the community comes together as you discuss how to improve future responses to emergencies.

[jiacast]

Short Story Day

The Elf Who Dreamed of Santa

Pip was busy organizing the toy parts when something glittery caught his attention. Indeed, it was a magnificent big mirror leaning against the wall, shining gold trim embellishments like Christmas lights. The elf, not busy, elves have time to look at themselves because it is so busy here in getting ready for Christmas. But not today; curiosity came over him.

Pip glanced around to check that no one was watching. Santa and Mrs. Claus were grateful cocoa drinkers in their study, and the other elves were busy testing toy trains. Clear.

Then he popped into position before the mirror and straightened his wee green hat. He squinted while stroking his chin as if he ought to have a huge, white beard. Then, deepening his voice, 'Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!!' boomed forth with a mighty swell.

It did startle him, but not enough not to grin. He grabbed a vermilion blanket and flung it over his shoulders like a cape. Then he stashed a pillow into the lounge chair, taking it for his purposes, having the belly of Santa.

He turned back to the mirror, puffed out his chest, and said, "Have you been good this year, little one?" Then, with a chuckle in his throat, he laughed at his reflection.

“Ho, ho, ho!” he bellowed again, this time with an exaggerated jiggle of his pillow-stuffed belly. "Don't forget the cookies and milk for Santa!"

Suddenly, a quiet clap echoed behind him. Pip froze. Slowly turning, he found himself face-to-face with Santa Claus himself, his jolly blue eyes twinkling with amusement.

"Practicing for the big leagues, are we, Pip?" said Santa in warm, kind tones.

As red as his makeshift cape, Pip's cheeks glared. "I... I was just... uh..." He fumbled around for a sufficient sentence, dropping the blanket and yanking the pillow out from under his shirt.

Santa laughed out loud, accomplishing that hearty shake of his belly, which Pip had only pretended to have. "There is no need to be shy, my lad. You have been a very good Santa Claus. The North Pole could just be a bit more festive at this time of the year."

Pip deemed it best to stay still for a moment and then ventured into a shyer, somewhat awkward smile. "You think so?"

"I do," Santa replied. "Now come and help me out in making it come true. The reindeer need polishing of their jingle bells, and I could use an elf with a Santa spirit-sized heart to help."

Pip's chest swelled with pride. "You can count on me, Santa!"

From that day forth, Pip became known as the most enthusiastic elf in the North Pole, bringing cheer and happiness wherever he went. For his dreams still rode high in longing to one day wear the red suit, yet he knew he was already an important part of Christmas magic.

[jiacast]

Go Caroling Day

"A Merry Light of Christmas"

Verse 1 Twinkling lights on every street, Snowflakes dancing, oh so sweet, Laughter fills the frosty air, Joy and love are everywhere.

Chorus Oh, the merry light of Christmas shines, In our hearts and through the pines. Gather near, let spirits sing, Feel the magic this season brings.

Verse 2 Stockings hung and candles glow, Warmth that melts the chill of snow. Carols ring from door to door, Peace and hope forevermore.

Chorus Oh, the merry light of Christmas shines, In our hearts and through the pines. Gather near, let spirits sing, Feel the magic this season brings.

Bridge From the mountains to the seas, Love unites us like the trees. Shining bright, the star above, Guides us to the gift of love.

Chorus Oh, the merry light of Christmas shines, In our hearts and through the pines. Gather near, let spirits sing, Feel the magic this season brings.

Outro So let's hold this light through all the year, Keep the spirit warm and near. Every day, let kindness grow, In the merry light of Christmas glow.

(Took a short break from Tumblr to spend vacation in Hong Kong with my family)

[jiacast]

Rudolph’s Red Nose

Rudolph and the Magical Glow

Long before he became Santa's most famous reindeer, he was merely a little calf curious about the snow-blanketed woods of the North Pole. Unlike all the other reindeer, Rudolph loved to wander across the bright tundra and the intimidating frozen caves nearby. His most favorite place was a secret glade where the Aurora Borealis danced, illuminating the sky as if it were a heavenly performance.

On one frosty evening while the Northern Lights were painting the heavens, Rudolph wandered deeper into the glade than he had ever been before. All of a sudden, he tripped on a beautiful enchanted crystal lying on the snow; it was like nothing he had ever seen before: warm to the touch and glowing faintly with a golden-red hue. Captivated, Rudolph leaned in to nuzzle it and curiously pressed his nose against the mesmerizing object because of his spell.

The moment his nose touched the crystal, it was lit up with sparks, and a wave of heat washed over Rudolph. He sneezed in surprise, and to his shock, his nose became as bright as the jewel! As if the power of the Northern Lights had been banked inside him.

At first Rudolph felt embarrassed trying to stay with some other little reindeer, who teased him because of his glowing nose, calling him names and laughing at his "funny light." But as time passed, he saw how this amazing luminous nose could light up even the darkest parts of the forest and pave the way home on cloudy nights or during snowstorms.

One really terrible Christmas Eve, Santa had trouble indeed. The storm was so overpowering that neither he nor his team of reindeer could take to the sky. He was getting ready to announce to all that Christmas would be a miss for that year when he saw there was some brilliant light shining from Rudolph's stable. 

"Rudolph!" shouted Santa, eyes twinkling with hope, "With your nose so bright, won't you guide my sleigh tonight?"

Rudolph, although nervous about doing so, stepped forward to take his place as head of the sleigh team. As the team took flight through the snowy sky, his bright nose pierced through the storm like a lighthouse guiding ships to shore. Because of Rudolph, Santa got all his gifts delivered that night, and kids the world over woke to find Christmas in full swing.

From that day on, it was no longer an embarrassment to Rudolph that he glowed, for now, he was courageous, different, and magical. The rest of the reindeer looked up to him, and Santa made sure he would go down in history as the little red-nosed reindeer with a huge heart.

[jiacast]

Ugly Christmas Sweater Day

When the sweater gets to rest on my shoulders, a tickle flows from my chest to the tips of my fingers. Gaudy LEDs sewn into the fabric bounce with light more than they would usually, and that lumpy pom-pom on the chest starts softly humming as if alive. Just before I manage to comprehend what's going on, the very air about me seems to shimmer and warp into a flow of colors.

I stop spinning, and, suddenly, the living room is not what I experience. Where I am standing is now in the midst of a village covered by snow, with cobblestone streets and gingerbread-style houses lining them. The air is crisp, smelling of peppermint and pine. Twinkling lights deck the rooftops while elves scurry back and forth carrying sacks of presents and trays of cookies. In the middle of the village is a grand sleigh lying in a pile—its runners are dry, its paint has withered away, and its much-better-looking reins lie limp in the snow.

"Finally!" A freckled elf with a tool belt around his waist and a candy-cane-striped hat runs to you. "The sweater chose you! We've been waiting for one to help."

"Wait, what?" I stammer, still trying to process the sudden change of scenery. "Where am I? What's happening?"

"This is Treedale, Santa's workshop village," the elf finishes. "Tomorrow is the big day, and the sleigh is broken; without it, all will be horribly doomed on Christmas day! But Magic Sweater has brought you in to help."

I look down at the now strangely warm and comforting sweater. The pom-pom pulses softly, and a voice whispers in my mind, "Believe in the magic. You have what it takes." 

I hesitate, then nod. "Alright. What do I need to do?" 

The elf claps their hands. "Follow me!" They lead me to a workshop blaring with tools and raw materials. "Use magic from the sweater to mend the sleigh; one hitch, Grumblethorn knows you're here."

"Grumblethorn?"

The elf shudders. "Nasty creature, living up by the holiday spirit, trying to ruin Christmas for decades. He'll stop you if he finds you."

My heart pounds, but the sweater hums reassuringly, and I feel a surge of confidence. "Let us do this."

I work on fixing the sleigh for hours. With each weld of cracks, each sanding of a splinter, and repainting in gaudy reds and golds, the sweater seems to have a hand glowing dimly as my work progresses. Every task feels like second nature, as if this is something I've always done and been good at. The elves cheer me on, bringing cups of hot cocoa and sometimes lending tools when needed.

Just as I finish adding the last runner, there is a shadow over the workshop. The door bursts open, and a hulking shape with cold eyes and a twisted grin steps inside. Grumblethorn.

"Well, well." He sneers. "Fixing your sleigh, are you? Not with me around."

The room plunges in temperature, and the elves scatter to find cover behind furniture. I can feel a flicker of fear, but the sweater starts humming louder, warming you up with confidence. You stand tall.

"You won't stop Christmas, Grumblethorn," I say stiffly.

Grumblethorn lunges, but the sweater is quicker than that. Its lights blaze like a beacon to blind the creature. An energy field, shimmering in the light, surrounds you and throws off his icy attacks. The sweater's voice whispers again, "Share the joy."

And so, I really will know what to do. To close my eyes and think about all the blissful holiday memories I had: family dinners, opening presents, singing carols. A sweater that multiplies my feelings and sends into the room waves of warmth and light. Grumblethorn stumbles back, clutching his chest as the laughter pierces through his frigid exterior.

"No!" he cries as he shrinks to the size of a mere puff of smoke. Then he gives a last wail before disappearing into the night.

Cheers erupt among the elves, and the lights of the sweater softly twinkle in their own triumphant way. A moment later, Santa himself comes in, his eyes twinkling with gratitude. "You have saved Christmas," he says, shaking my hand. "But there is one more thing you'll need to do."

With the sleigh repaired and the reindeer hitched, Santa asks me if I'd like to ride along for Christmas Eve deliveries. With the sweater, I'm cozy as I soar through the night, dropping gifts and cheer to every corner of the world. I've never felt more alive.

When the trip is over, Santa returns me to my living room, lights dimming on the sweater; the pom-pom hums one last time, then falls silent. Time to take it off and fold it onto a chair carefully. As you do, I hear a whisper so soft it can barely be perceived: "This is not the end of this tale—just the beginning."

And I can't help but believe it.

[jiacast]

Wright Brothers Day

Journal of Orville Wright December 17, 1903

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

That is to say, history flew today.

I can hardly find the language to convey the exhilaration and disbelief of what we have done. This morning, under gray skies and with the biting wind whipping at our faces, Wilbur and I made the last refinements to the Flyer. Every bolt, every turn of the chain, and every stroke of the engine had been checked and double-checked. It is time.

The initial attempt was mine. Wilbur held on to the side, steadying the craft on its rail as I climbed aboard. My hands trembled as they gripped the controls. A prayer escaped my lips, not for safety but for success—though I suppose, in this case, they were one and the same.

The mighty engine rumbled, and then the Flyer began its movement as if by a gushing push. And as it went faster, it will cave into space below us. It was deep down in the innermost soul of mine—the miracle of flight! It was short, only 12 seconds and 120 feet, but those moments would have been eternity. For in that fleeting moment, man left the ground and soared into the skies.

This was followed by Wilbur taking the next turn in the flying machine. Our confidence reigned with each successive attempt, the last of which carried him 852 feet in 59 seconds. I could hardly fathom it, despite witnessing it.

No cheering crowds, no bands to herald it. Just the wind and the emptiness of a field of sand to witness the act. But that is enough. After the last flight, Wilbur and I exchanged a look, and in that glance, I could see a reflection of my own thought: today the world changed forever.

The Flyer-Reality all battered within the shed, flung here and there, has been torn by winds. Perfect she is not at all, but she has proved what we long hoped would be possible.

Tonight, as I write with this kerosene lamp on bright, deep within my heart, I sip in gratitude—for trials that taught us patience, for failures that bred resolution, for my brother, one whose partnership has never wavered on this crazed trip.

This dream of flight has been with humanity for a long time: today, it became real.

- Orville

[jiacast]

Santa’s Workshop

The Great Wrapping Paper Debate

The elves would be busy preparing for Christmas Eve that night; the whole workshop would be alive with sound and movement. The assembly line of toys would be humming, the air noise would contain the smell of peppermint, and rhythm would replace melody with the excited-sounding jingle bells ringing as the elves enjoyed doing their work.

At the wrapping station, however, the cheeriness was at a standstill for two elves, Jingle and Jangle, perhaps the most hardworking wrappers in the workshop.

"I'm telling you, Jingle," Jangle said, waving a roll of red-and-green-striped paper, "this is the perfect wrapping paper for this year's presents. Traditional, festive, and timeless!"

Jingle folded her arms, and the pointed ears twitched in annoyance. "Traditional? Timeless? Boring is what it is! Look at this!" Sparkling like a snowstorm in the moonlight, she held high a holographic silver roll of paper. "This paper is modern, eye-catchingly tricky, and magical! It screams 'Santa's workshop' in the best way imaginable."

Jangle rolled his eyes. "Magical? It sounds like you'd wrap a spaceship in it. Kids want Christmas to feel like Christmas, not a sci-fi movie!"

The argument continued to escalate, drawing in more elves who started whispering and pointing. Even Spark, the reindeer stable elf, managed to draw himself to the arena—the fashion show of everyday life—and gnawing at one end of a candy cane. 

"Listen to me, Jangle," Jingle shouted, "we are meant to excite them and not dull them with their lovely little gifts. Don't you want the children to open those gifts and say, 'Wow!'?"

"Wow! They are going to say, 'Wow!' when they get a headache from looking at that shiny nonsense," Jangle retorted.

Just as it looked like the two would exchange magical blows, a deep, jolly voice interrupted them. 

"Ho, ho, ho! What is this I hear about a rivalry over wrapping paper?"

Santa himself had come, rosy in cheeks with happiness. The elves stepped aside for him.

"Santa," Jangle started, "for this year let's go with a simple, yet traditional wrapping paper. It's what Christmas has to be about!"

"And I say we should make everything sparkle and shine!" added Jingle. "Kids deserve a little magic!"

Santa stroked his beard in deep thought. "Hmm, both of you have valid points. But Christmas is not just about doing it one way. It's about giving to all in countless ways." 

Then he scanned the gathering elves. "How about we use both? These gifts will have the everlasting charm of Jangle's wrapping paper, and others will have the dazzling magic of Jingle's. Everyone will be able to enjoy a little of both worlds."

Jingle and Jangle exchanged sheepish smiles. "That sounds...perfect," Jingle finally said.

"Yeah," Jangle nodded. ""I guess we do make a pretty good team, after all."

The workshop erupted in cheers, and the elves quickly got back to work combining their efforts into the most beautiful array of gifts wrapped that Santa's workshop had ever seen.

With this problem resolved, Santa later that night chuckled to Mrs. Claus about how sometimes the best part of Christmas would be watching everyone come together—even over a trivial disagreement. 

And so was the filling of the workshop with teamwork and creativity, which would not allow this Christmas to be forgotten.

[jiacast]

International Tea Day

Candy Cane Rose Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

10 whole candy canes, crushed

20 fresh rose petals, gently rinsed

1 tablespoon honey

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 liter boiling water

Optional: Milk or cream to taste

Instructions:

1. Crush the candy canes into small pieces using a mortar and pestle.

2. Gently bruise the rose petals in the palm of your hand to release their fragrance.

3. Place the crushed candy canes and rose petals in a heat-resistant teapot.

4. Pour the boiling water over the ingredients and let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.

5. Strain the tea into a mug, adding honey and vanilla extract to taste.

6. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream.

Serving Suggestions:

Garnish with a fresh rose petal for an elegant touch.

Enjoy this tea hot or iced.

Pair it with a sweet treat, such as a macaron or a slice of cake.

Additional Notes:

Adjust the brewing time and amount of candy canes and rose petals to suit your taste preferences.

For a stronger rose flavor, use more petals.

If you don't have fresh rose petals, you can use dried rose petals or rosewater.

This tea is best enjoyed within a day or two of brewing.

Disclaimer: This recipe is a fictional creation and has not been tested for safety or efficacy. Consult a healthcare professional before consuming large quantities of candy canes or rose petals.

[jiacast]

Monkey Day

The Christmas Monkey Claus

Not much time ago, a cold December evening fell on the zoo, and the animals ran with excitement. The zookeepers had gone through the whole zoo and put twinkling lights and garlands on to cover all fresh stuff, along with a big Christmas tree in the middle of the zoo plaza. The human beings, too, came home at nightfall, leaving all the animals cozily ensconced in their own enclosures.

In the monkey habitat, there was a little monkey named Milo, who was gazing at the shining Christmas tree from a little distance. He was looking at the other animals as they talked about things they wanted.

"I hope I get a juicy steak for Christmas!" said Leo the lion. "I want a new scratching post," added Cleo the tiger. "I just want some extra lettuce," chirped Ella the giraffe.

The eyes of Milo brightened. He was not for desiring something big for himself, but he was shot through with the love of Christmas, and he wanted everyone to experience it as a holiday's spirit. And then, an idea came into his mind; he would be Santa Claus for the zoo!

The Scheme

Milo squeezed himself into the supply shed, rummaging through the zookeepers' horde until he found the things he needed: a red towel and a fluffy white cleaning mitt. Wrapping the towel around himself like a coat and placing the mitt on his head like a hat, Milo exclaimed, "Santa Milo is here."

He would take a small wheelbarrow and start collecting all kinds of treats that he could find around the zoo. Took bananas from the monkey habitat, fishes from the penguins' stash, then harvested some sweet hay from the farm animals' barn.

"This would suit Ella!" Milo whispered to himself as he tossed the hay into his wheelbarrow.

The Delivery

As the moon rose high in the night sky, Milo began his deliveries. He pushed his wheelbarrow to the lion's den first. Leo, startled by the sight of a little monkey in a Santa outfit, roared, “Who goes there?" "Ho, ho, ho!" Milo said in his best deep voice. "It's Santa Claus, here to bring Christmas cheer!"

Leo burst into raucous laughter, but it turned tender as Milo offered him a slice of meat cut from a giant juicy steak sequestered from the zookeeper's kitchen. "To Leo, Merry Christmas!" said Milo, lifting the fluffy mitt hat he wore.

The next place Milo went was to Cleo the tiger, who rumbled with delight when she received a new scratching post that Milo had rolled over from the enrichment area.

Milo went around the zoo, leaving bananas for the monkeys, fish for the penguins, and an extra gift of peanuts for the elephants.

Finally, he reached Ella the giraffe. He threw the sweet hay into her enclosure and called up, "Merry Christmas, Ella!" 

Ella bent down her long neck to look at Milo. "Thanks, Santa. This is the best present."

The Surprise

By the time Milo would interrupt, he would find himself sore but happy. After he was just about to turn back into his enclosure, something strange drew his attention. Almost in the middle of the plaza and under the giant Christmas tree, there sat a pile of gifts.

Curiously enough, Milo crept closer. Each gift even had a tag with an animal's name, including his own. A fine card read: "To Milo, for being the most kind little monkey, with a loving touch of Christmas cheer. Love to, your friends," with a shiny red apple waiting for him. 

Apparently, the animals had found out the secret of Milo and then, together, collected their favorite things to offer him as a surprise. 

Milo's heart swelled with his appreciation. As the animals congregated beneath the tree, munching on treats and sharing stories, he looked up toward the stars and whispered, "Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!" 

And so, thanks to one little monkey with a big heart, the zoo had the best Christmas ever.

[jiacast]

Hot Cocoa Day / Day of the Horse

The Cocoa That Sparkled

In the gentle heart of Snowberry Valley, there lived a chestnut mare called Clover that resided in Merry Hoof Farm. Clover was the sweetheart of the animals for her gracious-heartedness and the beautiful coat that shimmered copper in winter sunlight. But something deeper in her heart felt that she had a much grander purpose than ambulating the same old track in and out of a paddock.

It was on one December evening, when the dancing snowflakes seemed to almost take form as fairies, that the farm took on this festive busyness with the children of the farmer decking the barn out with holly and twinkling lights, and the sweet smell of the festive food wafted around. Clover had been staring from her stall at the humans taking down steaming hot cups of cocoa and laughing into the cold night.

As soon as children found their beds, the barn turned quiet again. A faint light glowed from one corner, left accidentally by the youngest of the farmer, who forgot a mug of cocoa. Clover looked curiously, so she trotted over gently, her hooves clicking softly on the wooden floor. The place held a halved, vacated hay bale and radiated warmth and strange magical sparkle.

Clover sniffed the cocoa. It smelled nothing of all the things she had ever smelled—sweet, spicy, and mysterious in a small way. Without a second thought, she took a careful sip.

As soon as the cocoa touched its lips, warmth rushed through her body, and then a tingling feeling spread. Golden light captured it and swirled around like a whirlpool of stars. Clover closed her eyes and felt something different and exhilarating happening inside.

When she opened them again, things were different. The barn was brighter, much livelier. Clover looked down and gasped. Her hooves sparkled all silvery, her coat gleamed as if it were woven of stardust, and above her forehead spiraled a majestic horn. 

The change happened. She was a unicorn.

Clover stepped from within the house to find herself breathing visibly in the clean, brisk night air. As she walked, the snow beneath her hooves sparkled with all the colors of the rainbow. There was an almost overwhelming urge to gallop, to run wild and discover that new magic coursing through her.

She discovered her new powers in the meadow with no witnesses except for the moon. Her horn could suddenly summon light so that it could create orbs floating like little suns; she could heal the frostbitten plants along the way, reviving them into their green vitality even when winter was at its deadliest. Most astonishingly, she could take off the hooves, leaping beyond the earth into the midnight sky.

And Clover spent the whole night splashing snow across Snowberry Valley. Left behind were trails of sparkling snowflakes—wonder for the children in the morning, thousands brightened the dark woods for lost animals, and warmth found even in the coldest corners of the valley. She came back home in time as dawn broke, her heart full in happiness.

By then she was horse-shaped again. The magical secret kept within her was thus hidden by the time that the whole family of the farmer woke up. But she knew that she could always turn back into a unicorn by simply sipping that festive cocoa. From this day on, Clover felt fulfilled because she was part of being a simple barn horse and magical guardian of Snowberry Valley when it was asked of the world for a little extra sparkle.

And every winter, when they brought her mugs of cocoa, she nuzzled them lovingly, a silent promise of the magic they shared in knowing.

[jiacast]

Gingerbread House Day

My Gingerbread House

Exterior Design:

I would design my gingerbread home in a fun yet comfortable manner. Royal icing "cement" would hold the traditional gingerbread walls together. Scalloped chocolate wafers shaped like shingles, coated with powdered sugar to appear like snow, would be used for the roof. A stained-glass look would be achieved by using transparent candy for the windows, and the door would be framed with candy canes. In the front yard, there would be a little marshmallow snowman and edible glitter-covered gumdrop plants.

Decorations:

Jellybeans, licorice vines, and bright gumdrops would be used to decorate the walls. Twinkling fairy lights fashioned from small edible sweets would be strung along the roof's eaves. There would be a little puff of cotton candy "smoke" coming from a chimney constructed of stacked chocolate cubes.

Inside the House:

Inside, I see a warm atmosphere full of sweets. The floors would be made of chocolate bars arranged in a tiling pattern. The dining room would have a table and chairs made of peppermint sticks and gingerbread. A fireplace constructed out of graham crackers and a warm "fire" made of orange and red hard candies would be found in the living room. Little sugar wreaths and icing "wallpaper" would be used to adorn the walls.

[jiacast]

Lost & Found Day

The Bracelet and the Bunny

Lila planted herself on her bed's edge, glancing at her wrist, where her heart simply sank. The rainbow bracelet that her younger sister Ellie had made for her was missing. Each little bead was threaded with such loving insight, serving so well as a good luck charm for Lila's life.

She played back her day's events through her mind: she wore it on her morning walk to the park, when she sat on some swings, and when she stopped at the bakery to get cookies for Ellie. But somehow, between the park and home, it had slipped away.

Grabbing a flashlight instead, though night was falling, she set out afield to find it. She walked through the park, searching the grass near the swings and along the footpath. Nothing.

On her evening return, she spotted something lying in the grass beside the park's exit. Unfortunately, it wasn't her bracelet, just a fluffy pink bunny sleeping eye mask. Removing it from the ground, Lila stifled a giggle at its floppy bunny ears and adorably sleepy face.

"Someone's probably missing this," she thought to herself. Looks around her but couldn't see anyone nearby. She slipped the eye mask into her pocket, planning to leave a notice about it on the community board later.

The next morning, Lila returned to the park with her hopes still high about her bracelet. Nearby the swing set, a little girl whose mom was trying to console her. A photograph was clutched tightly in one of her tiny hands, showing a pink bunny sleeping eye mask.

Her heart leaped within her. She approached the pair and pulled the mask out of her bag. "Is this what you are looking for? she asked. 

And instantly the girl's face lit up, the tears drying. "Bunny!"She exclaimed, hugging the mask tightly.

After profuse thanks from her mother, insistence on helping search for the bracelet began between the two. They searched the areas together until the little girl shouted, "I found it!"

There, caught on the tip of a low branch, was Lila's rainbow bracelet. It snapped back around her wrist with an appreciative smile.

As they were leaving, a small cookie snack packet was given to Lila by the mom. "For your sister," she winked.

And back flew Lila with her bracelet and a story to tell. She spoke to Ellie about how the cookies reached her and the adventure with her rainbow bracelet. Ellie chuckled as she munched on the cookies.

"So you know what that means, right?" said Ellie.

"What?" Lila inquired.

"Your bracelet really is lucky."

And Lila could not help but agree.