What’s That (Wonderful) Smell!

Every year at Christmas, our mama’s house filled with a fragrance that brought images of snow-tipped evergreens, crisp starry nights, and warmth. Her secret? A pan of simmering holiday potpourri made from just a few pantry items.

Our gatherings were filled with the music of chatter and laughter, activity in the kitchen, a delightfully ridiculous pile of gifts around the tree, and babies crawling, youngsters running and tagging, teens on phones, women (mostly) tending things, and men (mostly) watching a ballgame.

Catching that “Christmas” fragrance anywhere, anytime, will forever bring my family members memories of those fun, busy, happy gatherings.

If you’d like to give it a try, here’s how to make it:

In a small saucepan, place:

* 1 orange, quartered (or just use the peel)

* 1/2 to 1 cup cranberries

* 1 T whole cloves

* 3 cinnamon sticks

Fill pan with water. Bring to boil then reduce heat to lowest setting. Replenish water as needed.

Substitutions

Feel free to experiment for the perfect scent for any occasion. Think sliced citrus fruits, lemon peel, dried bay leaf, rosemary, vanilla extract, star anise, nutmeg or allspice. Try one at a time or a couple together.