“The Santaland Diaries”

If you’re reading this, you may already be too late — get thee right now to a phone and call the Asheville Community Theater to reserve tickets for David Sedaris’ short story turned play, “The Santaland Diaries.” Sedaris’ account of a season as an elf in the Macy’s department store bears the NPR favorite’s typical caustic wit, self-deprecation and tremendous observation skills. Tom Chalmers, former Artistic Director of NYC’s Gotham City Improv/Groundlings East, stars in this one-man show. The play has sold out for the past four years — you’d think with that success they’d add a few more shows, as it only runs Dec. 14-16. Note that the show is NOT recommended for children. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by calling, 828.254.1320.

Making a Gift List

I’m a firm believer in never getting to old to make a list of what you want for the holidays. It clears up any confusion and helps ensure warm feelings all the way around for the gift giver and those on the receiving end. And if someone says that they really don’t want anything, make a donation in their name to a local charity and present them with a card stating such.

Godiva Chocolates

I’ve been a sucker for Godiva ever since my aunt introduced me to them (note that the phrasing is not the other way around) when I was about seven years old. These days they’re much more accessible, but remain special to my heart. There are full-on Godiva stores here and there, though none local to WNC, so instead head online to www.godiva.com. There’s a holiday collection featuring everything from nothing but white chocolate, a hot cocoa sampler, Hanukkah ballotins, truffles, chocolate Santas, cordials and absurdly large gift baskets. I know that we need more holiday treats like we need a hole in the head, but personally I’ve never let that stop me.

— By Sarah Kucharski