Where Santa Goes on Vacation

I spent the yesterday afternoon with a dear friend who’s moving from California—after living here for just over a year—later this week. As we walked Polo, she turned to me and asked, How do you get in the Christmas spirit out here? I assumed that ‘out here’ was a totally loving, favorable, and fabulous reference to the most beautiful state in America. Obviously.

It’s November, Internet. And I wore flip-flops, a tank top, and jeans as we meandered in the 80-degree weather. Unless Santa Claus wanted to vacation, California doesn’t really scream White Christmas, if you know what I mean. Growing up in the Golden State, I never had a chimney and was told Santa crept in through out dryer lint trap. And Rudolf? Well, he stayed parked on our black gravel driveway.

I didn’t know how to aptly respond to my friend’s question, so I resorted to saying tanning in a red and green bathing suit really puts one in the holiday spirit. Singing The Beach Boys Christmas carols while decorating your house with the air-conditioner blowing spices up holiday cheer. Sipping on frozen hot chocolate and trimming the tree sometimes does the trick.

And, then, I wasn’t so sure. I mean, she spoke about snowmen, fireplaces, and bundling in down jackets. And what did I proffer? Iced peppermint coffee at Starbucks?! Oh, Internet, what’s a girl to do? I am searching for the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit in an unconventional way…the person with the best idea will get an iTunes gift card…you know, because it’s the season of giving and all! 😉

Happy Monday!