Merry Christmas from Kodiak

 No, you are not reading the title wrong, it is Christmas in Kodiak.
Alaska was purchased from Russia and many russian influences
still abound.  Many residents of Kodiak follow the orthodox faith,
commonly called Russian Orthodox though it is part of the
Orthodox Church of America.  The orthodox celebrate Christmas
on what westeners would call the 12th day of Christmas, or the
Feast of the Epiphany.  

One of the fun traditions is called "Starring" where they take a
mock-up of a star and go to peoples homes to announce the
birth of the Christ child, then they sing some hymns, and then
they eat.  On to the next home, announce, sing, eat.  Many
households sign up to be on the tour, which gets to be an
endurance event.

Of course to keep warm it is good to have handy a libation,
how about a "White Russian Christmas"
1 1/2 oz Vodka
3/4 oz Kahlua
3/4 oz Light Cream or Milk

Mix the vodka and kahlua together then float the cream on top. Add ice if desired.

To make this a Christmas drink (red and green)
first add a little snow (coconut)
and some red caviar and chives sprinkled on top.

за ваше здоровье (Na zdorovje)