The Untapped Potential of a Solo Christmas

It’s one of those things that a lot of people have to face over this time of the year, the daunting task of experiencing one of the biggest holidays alone.

Be it by choice or circumstance, we often find ourselves not being in the company of those we love and have to make do with our own company.

Some do it better than others.

While Christmas is highlighted to be about family and friends, there are times when one has to go at it alone. This one is for those people and for such a time.

in the right mindset

Solo Christmases can exude a charm of their own when you get your mind right. The thought of spending Christmas alone might initially seem heavy, but it’s an opportunity to enjoy your own company.

Begin your day with a slow morning – dive into a cup of freshly brewed coffee, and take the time to just be. Embrace the calmness by delving into your favorite book, playing nostalgic tunes, or taking a quick morning stroll while laughing at the people who left their shopping until the last minute.

Avoid going into the stores!

A Unique Celebration

A solo Christmas is a canvas for your creativity. Really, it is. You don’t run the risk of putting up something someone might not like or will find distasteful. Decorate your space with twinkling lights, fragrant candles, and perhaps a miniature tree adorned with ornaments that hold special meaning to you. Engage in activities that bring you joy – yes, even watching the annoying plethora of Christmas movies (I find them nauseating but in such instances I tend to make exceptions).

Make a solo feast

It’s become an unwritten rule that one must somehow excessively stuff oneself over the holiday. If you are alone, this is the perfect opportunity to pig out without looking like a glutton in front of other people. You might, like me, enjoy cooking, preparing food and treats and all for others, but this time, it will be about you. Imagine stuffing yourself with ham, chicken and freshly baked potatoes with dill and then sitting down to demolish a whole cheesecake by yourself? Go wild!

Meanwhile, check out this glazed ham recipe that is both simple and mouth-wateringly brilliant for your solo feast.

Showstopper: Glazed Ham

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in ham
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or 1/5 normal vinegar)
• Whole cloves for garnish

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on the fat. Make sure you remove the outer skin or ask your butcher to do it for you. Insert the cloves into the cuts for added flavor.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard and vinegar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, creating a glaze.
3. Brush the ham generously with the prepared glaze, ensuring it seeps into the cuts. Cover the ham loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning and place in the oven and bake for about 2 to 2,5 hours, occasionally basting it with the glaze every 30 minutes
4. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of baking to allow the ham to caramelize beautifully.
5. Once done, let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before carving. Serve it alongside your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh salad and some gravy.

A solo Christmas isn’t about being alone; it’s about enjoying your own company, creating moments that speak to your soul, and feasting like a king/queen. So, embrace this unique celebration, take photos and brag to your loved ones, and I’m sure you might get a knock or two at your door before the day ends.

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