What a beautiful Christmas Eve day! I finished my shopping, just in time, and purchased food for tomorrow evening’s Christmas dinner. After working on gifts, which turned out wonderfully I must say, and wrapping presents, it was time for a well deserved break.
I enjoyed the comforting ritual of fixing my afternoon tea. I used Mimi Leta’s Thistle pattern tea cup and saucer. Greg bought me a selection of delectable cookies that are perfect for tea time. And today, for my first, I tried a product that I’ve seen around for a very long time but have never tasted. I almost hate to admit it, because some of my friends are crazy about Nutella, but I’ve never tried it, until today.
Nutella is an Italian hazelnut-chocolate spread, similar to peanut butter, but sweeter. It was first introduced to the market back in 1964, by the Italian company Ferrero. It was an instant success and remains widely popular today. I was a kid back in 1964. I’ve heard of Nutella all my life and I’m not sure why I’m just now getting around to sampling some. It’s never too late, though, is it? I bought the Nutella & Go package, complete with little bread sticks, which made an easy and great addition to my tea time.
And, I like Nutella. I’m not a big fan of chocolate, so I think I still prefer peanut butter, but for tea time, it was perfect. I know there are all kinds of recipes using this hazelnut-chocolate spread and all kinds of food to spread Nutella on. I’ll have to do my research.
This year, on May 14, the Italian post office issued a 50th anniversary Nutella commemorative stamp. Ferrero celebrated the anniversary on the 17th and 18th of May. There is even a World Nutella Day, which is February 5 each year. Who knew? I do now, and I’ll enjoy adding Nutella occasionally to afternoon tea.
I enjoyed the new treat today. Most of all, I enjoyed a quiet time of reflecting on the blessings of the day and this time of year, as I sipped my hot tea. There was more gift wrapping after my break and a happy visit to three of my grandchildren, whom I will not get to see tomorrow. Ready for bed in colorful pjs, their bright faces and warm hugs were a wonderful reminder of all that is right with the world. My visit was brief, so they could get tucked into bed. I left with their cheerful Merry Christmases ringing in my ears and their love surrounding my heart. And I returned home under a gorgeous, clear, star filled sky. Silent Night, Holy Night, All is Calm, All is Bright.
