Dad and grandpa would build a fire while mother and grandma made hot chocolate and cookies. Then we would all snuggle around the TV listening to winter wonderland music occasionally interrupted by the snapping of kindling. The adults held hands as we three girls giggled watching them.
There is still time to bring romance into the season, while the children are dreaming of sugarplums and the adults have disconnected from the cyber world. Set aside moments between now and the New Year to rekindle simple loving with movies, music, and these few naughty but nice tips.
Make some popcorn and watch one of the top romantic holiday films:
“While You Were Sleeping,” with Bill Pullman as the romantic lead, features Sandra Bullock playing with loneliness and love.
“Serendipity,” with Kate Beckinsale and John Cusack, is a department store romance in which they trust fate to reunite them.
“Love Actually” has Hugh Grant as prime minister in a romantic comedy with a simple theme — “Love is everywhere.”
Music always sets a mood. For those following the escapades of “Jane the Virgin,” her fiancé said “I’m sorry” by putting their favorite song on his iPhone and surprising her.
Make playlists of your favorite holiday and love songs. The top songs still include “Winter Wonderland” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” along with “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.”
For lovers, the music streaming service Spotify identified “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” from “Dirty Dancing,” as well as “Bolero” and “Bohemian Rhapsody” as taking top spots.
Now for those naughty and nice tips:
At the next party, pull your special someone into a corner — pretend no one is watching — and kiss generously.
Write a fantasy love list: The two of you should confess your secret desires on paper and then decide which you might both enjoy.
Design an all white bedroom: De-clutter and make a movie set room of white plump pillows, gauze fabrics, unscented candles, red roses and fresh pine-tree greens.
In the world of holiday gift lists, create the ultimate one of love notes and gratitude. Fill a mug or glass jar with Baci candies; each comes wrapped in foil with a love note. Sit them on a table next to a white scroll tied with red ribbons. The scroll should list all the reasons you are grateful for your love. And be sure to add thanks for memorable moments you shared.
Wishing you days overflowing with blessings and joy.
Rita Watson: Bring romance into the holiday season/ Providence Journal link
Rita Watson is a relationship columnist for the Providence Journal andPsychologyToday.com.