A festivity of almond marzipan, amaretto hot toddies, and amber musk with balsam boughs, winterberry, copper distilled patchouli, and aged sandalwood

Are they Christmas fairies stealing
Rows of little socks to fill?
Are they angels floating hither
With their message of good-will?
What sweet spell are these elves weaving,
As like larks they chirp and sing?

~Louisa May Alcott, 1876

Art: Still life with dainties, rosemary, wine, jewels and a burning candle by Clara Peeters, 1607