Lit for Christmas

Welcome to our Saint Patrick's Day Lit for Christmas party of Season Five!In this episode, Marty and Beth get bombed on Bailey's Mint Mudslides and discuss "Christmas Morning" by Irish writer Frank O'Connor.   BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time Beth makes a seuxal innuendo. CAUTION: You WILL get very drunk.SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTBailey's Mint Mudslide:Ingredients:Two shots original Bailey's Irish CreamOne shot Creme de Menthe SyrupOne shot Vanilla CreamerHershey's Chocolate Syrup1 cup of ice1 Hershey's kissDirections:In a blender, put ice, Bailey's Irish Cream, Creme de Menthe, and Vanilla Creamer. Blend well.Drizzle sides of glass with Hershey's Chocolate Syrup.Pour blended mixture into drizzled glass.Add Hershey's kiss, if desired.Non-Alcoholic Directions:Substitute two scoops of mint chocolate chip ice cream for the Bailey's Irish Cream and Creme de Menthe. Eliminate the ice. Double the Vanilla Creamer (2 shots) to thin the mixture. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts:Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published two poetry collections, The Mysteries ofthe Rosary from Mayapple Press and A Bigfoot Bestiary and Other Wonders from Modern History Press .  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com).  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting.Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She hasworked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband.Music for this episode:"Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay."A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay.Other music in the episode:The Dubliners. "Whiskey in the Jar." More of the Hard Stuff. Major Minor, 1968.A Christmas Carol sound clips from:The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore.This month's Christmas lit:O'Connor, Frank.  "Christmas Morning." Collected Short Stories. New York, Knopf, 1981.

Welcome to our Black History Month Lit for Christmas party!In this episode, Marty and Beth sip Blue Eyes and discuss Toni Morrison's novel The Bluest Eye.   BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time you hear Beth make a bad pun. CAUTION: You WILL get very drunk.SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT:The Blue Eye Ingredients:·     2 shots Vodka·     1 shot Blue Curacao ·     3 shots Baja Blast Mountain Dew·     1 shot white cranberry juice·     3 or 4 whole blueberriesDirections:1.     Gently mix vodka, Blue Curacao, Baja Blast Mountain Dew, white cranberry juice to a shaker over ice.2.     Strain into martini glass.3.     Add three or four whole blueberries for garnish.Directions for Non-Alcoholic The Blue Eye Recipe Follow same directions as above, eliminating vodka and Blue Curacao. Increase amount of Baja Blast Mountain Dew to 4 shots and white cranberry juice to 2 shots.Lit for Christmas Party Hosts:Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. He has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms as U.P. Poet Laureate, and has published the poetry collections The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press and A Bigfoot Bestiary and Other Wonders from Modern History Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com). Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She hasworked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature withher loving husband.Music for this episode:"Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay."A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay.Other music in the episode:UB40. "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain." Getting Over the Storm. Virgin/Universal, 2 September, 2013.A Christmas Carol sound clips from:The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore.This month's Christmas lit:Morrison, Toni.  The Bluest Eye. New York, Penguin Group, 1970.

Yes, we are back, Lit for Christmas party goers! Bigger and better. Apologies for our long hiatus. Life became quite complicated last year, and we had to put quite a few things on hold. However, we are here and ready to Christmas party again! In this episode, Marty and Beth imbibe in Peppermint Patties and discuss Dave Barry's The Shepherd, the Angel, and Walter the Miracle Christmas Dog. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Peppermint Patty (courtesy of https://novelnightcaps.com/recipe/hot-peppermint-patty-cocktail/) Ingredients Mug of you favorite hot chocolate 3 shots of Peppermint Schnapps Marshmallows or whipped cream (if you prefer) Directions Make your mug of hot chocolate (we used Swiss Miss) Three shots of Peppermint Schnapps (use mint or peppermint extract for non-alcoholic version) Lit for Christmas Party Hosts Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms as U.P. Poet Laureate, and has published two poetry collections, The Mysteries of the Rosasy from Mayapple Press and A Bigfoot Bestiary and Other Wonders from Modern History Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing, visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com). Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She was worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she words in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H., used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: Osmond, Donny. "Puppy Love." Portrait of Donny. MGM, 27 May, 1972. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Barry, Dave. The Shepherd, the Angel, and Walter the Miracle Christmas Dog. New York. G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2006.

Welcome to our Valentine's Day Lit for Christmas party of Season Four! In this episode, Marty and Beth guzzle down Love Martinis and discuss Seven Stories of Christmas Love by Dr. Love himself, Leo Buscaglia.  BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time you hear our 15-year-old son in the background.  CAUTION: You WILL get very drunk. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Love Martini (courtesy of https://picturetherecipe.com/recipes/valentines-special-love-martini-cocktail/) Ingredients: · 1/2 shot Malibu Rum (Substitute Coconut Cream for non-alcoholic version) · 1/2 shot Peach Schnapps (Substitute Peach Nectar for non-alcoholic version) · 1/2 shot Vodka (Substitute (Substitute Strykk Not Vodka for non-alcoholic version) · 3 shots Cranberry Juice · 2 strawberries, for garnish (optional) · A wedge of lime (optional) · Sugar to rim the glass (optional) Directions: 1. To make strawberry hearts for garnish, cut a small "v" to remove the stem of the strawberry. Then cut it into slices. 2. Rim martini glass with sugar (optional).  Use a lime/lemon wedge along the rim of the glass to get it wet and dip the glass in a plate with sugar. 3. Gently mix the Malibu Rum, Peach Schnapps, Vodka, and Cranberry Juice together in a shaker over ice and pour it into the prepared glass. 4. Garnish your love martini with a couple strawberry hearts and a strawberry on the rim. Directions for Non-Alcoholic Love Martini Recipe Follow same directions as above, eliminating, substituting Coconut Cream, Peach Nectar, and Strykk Not Vodka for Malibu Rum, Peach Schnapps, and Vodka. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: Bieber, Justin. "Christmas Love." Under the Mistletoe. RBMG/Island Def Jam Music Group, 1 November, 2011. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Buscaglia, Leo.  Seven Stories of Christmas Love. New York, William Morrow and Company, Inc., 1987.

Welcome to our first Lit for Christmas party of Season Four! In this episode, Marty and Beth partake in a little drink called the Frodo and talk about the creator of Middle Earth, J. R. R. Tolkien, and his book Letters from Father Christmas, in celebration of what would have been Tolkien's 132nd birthday on January 3, 2024.  BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time you hear the words "Polar Bear." CAUTION: You WILL get very drunk. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Frodo (courtesy of Tara Reyes and https://popgoestheculture.com/pop-culture-kitchen-middle-earth-cocktails/) Ingredients: 1 shot vodka (eliminate for nonalcoholic version) 1 shot peach schnapps (substitute peach nectar for nonalcoholic version) 2 shots cranberry juice 2 shots lemonade Directions: Add the cranberry juice to a cocktail glass with ice. Add vodka, peach schnapps, and lemonade to a mixing glass and shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with maraschino cherry, if desired. Directions for Non-Alcoholic Frodo Recipe Follow same directions as above, eliminating vodka and substituting two shots of peach nectar for peach schnapps.  Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Spotify.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: Dalton, Brendan and the 1740 Boys Choir. "Christmas in the Shire." Christmas in Middle-Earth. bandcamp.com, 27 November, 2020. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Tolkien, J. R. R.  Letters from Father Christmas. Harper Collins Publishing, 1999.

Merry Christmas, all you Lit for Christmas partiers! Welcome to this bonus Christmas Day party!  For this special Lit for Christmas party, Marty shares his essay "Joy to the World."  BONUS POINTS:  Tell someone you love them today. TODAY'S CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Marty Schnog Directions: Pour a mug of eggnog Add three to four shots of Bailey's Irish Cream Drink Lit for Christmas Party Host: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Additional Episode Music: "JOYFUL (Ode to Joy)" by Anne Crosby Gaudet (youtube.com/watch?v=5mXVv2U5HNA) This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin.  "Joy to the World."  

Welcome to our Christmas Eve Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty and his friend and new cohost and co-drunk, Andrea, talk about the meaning of life, joy, and Christmas as they discuss Paul Kalanithi's When Breath Becomes Air.  It's an episode that's sure to appreciate your loved ones this holiday season.  BONUS POINTS: Take a shot anytime you hear a terrible dad joke!  WARNING: THERE ARE A LOT OF THEM! GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: The Brain Cocktail (recipe adapted from cookingchanneltv.com) Ingredients: 1 1/2 shots of peach schnapps (substitute peach juice for virgin version) 1 1/2 shots of Bailey's Irish Cream (substitute Bailey's Coffee Creamer for virgin version) Dash of grenadine Directions: Pour peach schnapps in a glass. Slowly add Bailey's Irish Cream, allowing it to clot. Slowly drizzle with a dash of grenadine on top. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Use ingredients and follow above directions, making the substitutions listed above. YOUR HOSTS Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor ho puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Andrea has had several careers and has a hard time labeling herself.  She has an art degree from Michigan State and considers herself an anti-social hockey mom, timid badass, and defender of public resources.  She currently works at Peter White Public Library as the hype girl. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: McLachlan, Sarah.  "In the Bleak Midwinter."  Wintersong by Sarah McLachlan.  Arista, 2006. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Kalanithi, Paul.  When Breath Becomes Air.  Vintage, 2017.

Welcome to our post-Thanksgiving Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, celebrate an early Krampusnacht as they discuss Brom's yuletide offering, Krampus the Yule Lord.  It's a knock-down, drag-out, to-the-death battle between Santa and Krampus!  BONUS POINTS: Take a shot anytime the word “yule” is said!  Yule be drunk before you know it! GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Yuletide Moon Cocktail (recipe adapted from adirondackwinery.com) Ingredients: 1 shot of Merlot or dry red wine (substitute cranberry juice for virgin version) 1 shot of Bourbon (substitute non-alcoholic bourbon for virgin version) 4 Cherries, pitted (fresh or in jar) 3 tablespoons Orange Juice 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup Dash of cinnamon and nutmeg 1 Lemon Zest (optional) Directions: 1.   Place cherries in a tall glass, then muddle.  Keep the cherries in the glass once muddled. 2.   Add orange juice, maple syrup, Merlot (cranberry juice for virgin version), bourbon (non-alcoholic bourbon for virgin version), and mix. 3.   Pour into an old fashion glass with handful of ice. 4.   Stir then add lemon peel (optional), cinnamon, and nutmeg. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Use ingredients and follow above directions, making the substitutions listed above. ⁠ YOUR HOSTS Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor ho puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking.  Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "We Wish You a Scary Christmas."  Pipes, Douglas. Krampus Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Back Lot Music, 2015. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Brom, Gerald.  Krampus the Yule Lord.  Harper Collins Publishers, New York:  2012.

Welcome to a little shot of Lit for Christmas for Christmas Podcast Day! For this special episode, Marty shares some shots of Christmas poems about Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol that he's written over the years!  Merry Christmas Podcast Day! BONUS POINTS:  If you already have your Christmas tree up, take three extra shots of whatever's open in the liquor cabinet. Lit for Christmas Party Host: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this bonus episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin.  "Fezziwigging," "Ghosts of Christmas Past"

Welcome to our Halloween Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty and Beth partake in a little drink called the Bobby Burns and talk about the King of Horror's novella "The Breathing Method" from the novella collection Different Seasons. BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time your hear the word "breathing." CAUTION: You WILL get very drunk. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Bobby Burns (courtesy of Liquor.com) Ingredients: 1 shot of blended scotch whiskey (ideally a 12-year-old) 1 shot of sweet vermouth 1/2 shot of Benedictine garnish with lemon peel (optional) Directions: 1. Add the scotch, vermouth and Benedictine to a mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled. 2. Strain into a cocktail glass. 3. Twist a lemon peel over the glass to release its oils and then drop it into the drink. Directions for Non-Alcoholic Bobby Burns Recipe  Follow same directions as above, substituting apple juice for scotch, lemon-lime soda for vermouth, and cranberry juice for Benedictine.  Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: Manson, Marilyn. "This Is Halloween." Nightmare Revisited. Walt Disney, 2008. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: King, Stephen. “The Breathing Method.”   Different Seasons. Viking Press, 1982.

WARNING: This episode contains adult language and discussion of a certain guy in red fur that may not be appropriate for small children. Welcome to our first 'ber month Lit for Christmas party of the year! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, become Merry Prankster's as the discuss Ken Kesey's One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest in honor of what would have been Kesey's 88th birthday on September 17. BONUS POINTS: Take a drink every time someone says the word “crazy.” GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Surfer on Acide (recipe adapted from Liquor.com)  Ingredients 1 shot of Jagermeister (substitute non-alcoholic bourbon for non-alcoholic version) 1 shot of coconut rum (substitute coconut cream for non-alcoholic version) 1 shot of pineapple juice Pineapple wedge for garnish (optional) Ice Directions: 1.   Add all the ingredients in a shaker with ice. 2.   Shake, strain, and pour into a highball glass with ice. 3.   Garnish with pineapple wedge (optional). GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Use ingredients and follow above directions, making the substitutions listed above. ⁠ YOUR HOSTS Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking.  Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "O Come All Ye Grateful Dead-Heads."  Rivers, Bob. Twisted Christmas.  Critique/Atco/Atlantic, 1988. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Kesey, Ken.  One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.  Penguin Books, New York:  1962.

Welcome to this late (by a few days) Lit for Christmas August party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, partake in a few Mars Explosions while talking about Ray Bradbury's short-short story “The Gift” in honor of Bradbury's 103rd birthday.  Also, learn the history of grenadine. BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time you hear a bad Close Encounters of the Third Kind allusion. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Mars Explosion (courtesy of https://cocktailsandshots.com/recipe/mars-explosion/#google_vignette) Ingredients: One shot vodka (omit for non-alcoholic version) Two shots orange juice (four shots for non-alcoholic version) 1/4 shot rum (omit for non-alcoholic version) 1/2 shot grenadine Ice Garnish: maraschino cherry or orange slice (optional) Directions: Add vodka, orange juice, and rum to shaker with ice. Shake. Strain into a glass with ice. Pour grenadine into glass. Do not mix. Garnish with maraschino cherry or orange slice (optional).  Directions for Non-Alcoholic Mars Explosion Recipe  Follow same directions as above, omitting vodka and rum, substituting 4 shots of orange juice instead.  Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: Zimmerman, Roy. "Christmas on Mars." Real American. Metaphor Records, 2010. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Bradbury, Ray. “The Gift.”   Esquire, 1 Dec. 1952.

Welcome to our very, very, very late Lit for Christmas in July party! In a day's time, look for our August Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, charm some Copperheads and discuss opioid addiction, foster care, and Kingsolver love. BONUS POINTS:  Take a drink every time Marty or Madeline make a bad exorcism pun. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Copperhead (recipe adapted from https://www.thedrinkkings.com/copperhead-recipe/)  Ingredients ·      2 shots of vodka (omit for nonalcoholic alternative) ·      5 shots of ginger ale (7 shots for nonalcoholic alternative) ·      Lime wedge or 1 shot of lime juice ·       Ice Directions: 1.   Add all the ingredients in a shaker with ice. 2.   Shake, strain, and pour into a highball glass with ice. 3.   Squeeze the lime wedge into drink (or add lime juice), drop wedge into drink, and serve. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Use ingredients and follow above directions, omitting vodka and using 7 shots of ginger ale. YOUR HOSTS Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking.  Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "Christmas Time's A Comin'."  O'Connor, Mark.  An Appalachian Christmas.  OMAC Records, 2011. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Kingsolver, Barbara.  Demon Copperhead.  HarperCollins Publishers, 2022.

Merry Christmas in July, all you Lit for Christmas partiers! Welcome to this bonus shot of Christmas in July!  For this special Lit for Christmas pre-party, Marty shares his essay "Just Like the Ones I Used to Know." In a couple weeks, a brand new, full Lit for Christmas party will drop. BONUS POINTS:  Say "Merry Christmas" to at least three of your neighbors!

NOTE: Still working on sound issues. My apologies. Welcome to the Lit for Christmas Pride Month party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, enjoy a few Tom Collinses while talking about David Sedaris's collection of essays/short stories Holidays on Ice. Also, witness a podcast first: Marty spills his drink all over his laptop. BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time you hear the word "ice." SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Tom Collins (courtesy of liquor.com and sipyours.com) Ingredients: 2 shots of gin (substitute Wilderton Earthen Non-Alcoholic Spirit for Virgin Tom Collins) 1 shot of lemon juice 1/2 of simple syrup Club soda or Sprite (to top) Lemon wheel for garnish (optional) Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional) Directions: Add gin (or Wilderton Earthen Non-Alcoholic Spirit), lemon juice, and simple syrup to a Collins glass. Fill with ice and top with club soda or Sprite. Stir. Garnish with lemon wheel and/or maraschino cherry (optional). Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: Vanilla Ice. "Ice Ice Baby." To the Extreme. SBK, 1990. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Sedaris, David.  Holidays on Ice.  Little, Brown and Company:  New York, NY, 2008.

Welcome to our May Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, enjoy Sex on the Beach and tackle the stigma of mental illness talking about Sonya Sones' Saving Red. BONUS POINTS:  Take a drink every time Marty says “you know”! WARNING: YOU WILL GET VERY DRUNK! GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Sex on the Beach (recipe adapted from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sex-on-the-beach-cocktail_n_596f74dfe4b0a03aba86b779) Ingredients 1 1/2 shots vodka (omit for Cuddles on the Beach) 1/2 shot peach schnapps (substitute peach nectar for Cuddles on the Beach) 1 1/2 shot cranberry juice 1 1/2 shotss orange juice Ice Directions: Add all the ingredients in a shaker. Shake, strain and pour into a highball glass. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry if you're feeling fancy. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE (CUDDLES ON THE BEACH): Use ingredients and follow above directions, omitting vodka and substituting peach nectar for peach schnapps. Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking.  Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "California Dreamin'."  The Mamas & the Papas.  If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears.  RCA Victor, 1965. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Sones, Sonya.  Saving Red.  HarperCollins Publishers, 2016.

NOTE: Apologies for the sound quality of this recording. Welcome to the Lit for Christmas National Poetry Month party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, imbibe in the official state cocktail for Michigan, visit the Motor City (and Greece and France) with colby Cedar Smith's novel in verse Call Me Athena: Girl from Detroit. BONUS POINTS:  Take a shot every time you hear the word "call." SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: The Hummer courtesy of Punch (https://punchdrink.com/articles/how-the-hummer-cocktail-recipe-became-detroit-michigan/) Ingredients: 1 1/2 shots white rum 1 1/2 shots Kahlua 2 scoops vanilla ice cream Directions: Add all ingredients to a blender, add two ice cubes and blend until smooth. Pour into a rocks glass. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE (courtesy of boozybisou.com): Ingredients: Substitute 1 1/2 shots of rum extract for white rum Substitute 1 tsp. of cocoa powder for Kahlua 2 scoops vanilla ice cream Use above ingredients and follow same directions to prepare. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education.  She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier.  Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: Kiss. "Detroit Rock City." Destroyer. Casablanca, 1976. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Cedar Smith, Colby.  Call Me Athena: Girl from Detroit.  Andrews McMeel Publishing:  Kansas City, Missouri, 2021.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussion of physical and emotional trauma and abuse. Welcome to our St. Patrick's Day Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, indulge in a wee drop of Irish Cream, Crème de Menthe, and vodka and get serious (and seriously drunk) talking about Claire Keegan's Small Things Like These. BONUS POINTS:  Take a drink every time Marty tries on a bad Irish accent! GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Bailey's Mint Martini (recipe adapted from lemontreedwelling.com) Ingredients: 1 shot Bailey's Irish Cream 1 shot Creme de Menthe liqueur 1 shot of vodka 2 shots of Half & Half ice Garnish: Whipped cream and chocolate shavings Directions: 1.    Fill cocktail shaker with ice.  2.    Add ingredients; cover and shake well.  3.    Strain into a martini glass.  4.    Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings as desired. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Use ingredients and follow above directions, substituting mint simple syrup for Crème de Menthe, Bailey's Coffee Creamer for Bailey's Irish Cream, and Arkay's Zero-Proof Vodka for vodka. Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press.  For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm.  Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking.  Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" byM agic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "The Christmas Reel." The Chieftains.  The Chieftains 10.  Claddagh Records Ltd., 1981. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Keegan, Claire.  Small Things Like These.  Grove Press: New York, NY, 2021.

Welcome to the Lit for Christmas Eve party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, take a little trip to the Caribbean with a lot of rum and John Grisham's Skipping Christmas. BONUS POINTS: Take a shot for every bad John Grisham allusion and pun. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Bahama Mama courtesy of cocktails.lovetoknow.com Ingredients: 1 shot coconut rum 1 shot of dark rum 1 1/2 shots of pineapple juice 1 shot of orange juice 1/2 shot of grenadine 1/2 shot of lime juice Ice Orange slice and cherry to garnish Directions: In a cocktail shaker, add rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine, lime juice, and ice. Shake to chill. Strain into highball glass over fresh ice. Garnish with orange slice and cherry. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE (courtesy of boozybisou.com): Ingredients: 1/2 shot coconut cream 2 shots of pineapple juice 1 shot of orange juice 1/2 shot of grenadine 3/4 shot of lemon juice 2 shots of sparkling water Ice Orange slice and cherry to garnish Use above ingredients and follow same directions to prepare. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "Skipping Christmas." Rivera, Brent. Brent Rivera Productions Inc. 2017. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Grisham, John. Skipping Christmas. Doubleday: New York, NY, 2001.

Welcome to our out of this world Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, drink alien secretions and have a close encounter of the Christmas kind with Whitley Strieber's Communion: A True Story. BONUS POINTS: For any listener who's been abducted by aliens! GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT SPIRIT: Alien Secretion (recipe courtesy of Tipsy Bartender) Ingredients: 2 oz. (60ml) Coconut Rum 2 oz. (60ml) Melon Liqueur 3 oz. (90ml) Pineapple Juice Rim: Blue Sugar Garnish: Cherry Directions: Rim the edge of your glass using blue sugar. Set aside. In a shaking glass with ice, combine coconut rum, melon liqueur, and pineapple juice. Shake well. Strain mix into rimmed glass over ice and garnish with a cherry. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Use ingredients and follow above directions, substituting melon syrup for melon liqueur and coconut and rum extract for coconut rum. Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking. Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington. In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "I Want an Alien for Christmas." Fountains of Wayne. I Want an Alien for Christmas. Atlantic, 1997. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Strieber, Whitley. Communion: A True Story. Walker & Collier, 1987.

Merry Christmas, all you Lit for Christmas partiers! Welcome to this bonus Christmas Day party! For this special Lit for Christmas party, Marty shares his essay "Christmas Roses." BONUS POINTS: Tell someone you love them today. TODAY'S CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Peppermint Patty Directions: Make a mug of hot chocolate Add three to four shots of peppermint schnapps Drink Lit for Christmas Party Host: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Additional Episode Music: "Lo How a Rose E'er Blooming" by The O'Neill Brothers This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "Christmas Roses."

Welcome to the Lit for Christmas Eve party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, take on the grandfather of Christmas literature--Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. BONUS POINTS: Take a shot every time Beth yells "Shout out to my peeps!" (WARNING: You will become very drunk.) SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Smoking Bishop courtesy of punchdrink.com (https://punchdrink.com/recipes/smoking-bishop/) Ingredients: · 750 ml ruby port · 750 ml red wine · 1 cup water · 1/2 cup brown sugar · 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger · 1/4 teaspoon allspice · 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg · 4 oranges · 20 cloves, whole Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. Wash and dry oranges. Pierce and stud each orange with five cloves. 3. Place oranges in a baking dish and roast until lightly browned all over, 60-90 minutes. 4. Add port, wine, water, sugar and spices to a saucepan, and simmer over low heat. 5. Slice oranges in half and squeeze juice into the wine and port mixture. 6. Serve in a punch bowl, and ladle into individual glasses. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Use ingredients and follow above directions, substituting 750 ml of sparkling grape juice for ruby port and 750 ml of sparkling cranberry juice for red wine. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "A Christmas Carol." Bricusse, Leslie. Scrooge (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack). Columbia Records, 1970. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Dickens, Charles. A Christmas Carol. Suzeteo Enterprises: Greenwood, WI, 2019.

Welcome to our really lit Lit for Christmas November party! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, enjoy Thanksgiving Snoop Dogg-style while talking about Stephen Chbosky's The Perks of Being a Wallflower. WARNING: This episode contains some adult language and themes. DISCLAIMER: All cannabis and delta-9 products consumed on this podcast were legally purchased. BONUS POINTS: Say "This edible ain't sh*t!" GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT SPIRIT: Strawberry Fields edible from True North Confections Contains: 50 mg THC per gummi Nonalcoholic Alternative: Gummi worms Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking. Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington. In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Chbosky, Stephen. The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Simon & Schuster, 1999.

Welcome to a shot of Lit for Christmas for Christmas Podcast Day! For this special episode, Marty shares some shots of Christmas poems he's written over the years! Merry Christmas Podcast Day! BONUS POINTS: If you already have your Christmas tree up, take two extra shots of whatever's open in the liquor cabinet. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this bonus episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "Advent," "Silent Night," "The Frog Princess," "In the Bleak Midwinter," "Truce 1914," and "Hand of God."

Welcome back to this Lit for Christmas vacation party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, scare up some frozen Brandy Alexanders to talk about Richard Matheson's novel Hell House and October snowstorms. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Beth mentions that she's a middle child! (Hint: It's a LOT.) SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Brandy Alexander Ingredients: 1 - 1 1/2 oz. brandy or cognac 1 oz. dark creme de cacao 2 oz. of heavy cream (or 2 cups of vanilla ice cream for frozen Brandy Alexander) Nutmeg Directions: 1. Add brandy, cream de cacao, and cream into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled. OR 1. Add brandy, creme de cacao, and ice cream into a blender and blend well. 2. Strain into a cocktail glass. OR 2. Pour blended drink into cocktail glass. 3. Garnish top with ground nutmeg. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: 1 tsp. of brandy extract flavoring for brandy 1 tsp. of chocolate syrup 2 oz. of heavy cream (or 2 cups of vanilla ice cream for frozen Brandy Alexander) 1. Add brandy extract, chocolate syrup, and cream into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled. OR 1. Add brandy extract, chocolate syrup, and ice cream into a blender and blend well. 2. Strain into a cocktail glass. OR 2. Pour blended drink into cocktail glass. 3. Garnish top with ground nutmeg. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she works in a call center and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "Ghostbusters." Parker, Ray Jr. Ghostbusters (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack). Arista Records LLC, 6 August 1984. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Matheson, Richard. Hell House. Tom Doherty Associates, LLC: New York, NY. 1971.

Welcome to our Christmas in September party! In this episode, Marty and his friend, Madeline, are haunted by Liquefied Ghosts and Louise Erdrich's The Sentence. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Madeline talks about the Lizard Man in the sewers of Bloomington. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT SPIRIT: Liquified Ghost Ingredients: 2 oz. vodka 1 oz. vanilla simple syrup (or regular simple syrup if you use cream soda instead of club soda) 1 oz. cream 2 oz. club soda (or cream soda) Directions: Mix all ingredients in an ice-filled shaker and stir just to blend. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Nonalcoholic Alternative: Substitute 2 oz. of cream soda for the 2 oz. of vodka. Marty has a Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking. Currently, she is pursuing a Library Science graduate degree and avoiding the Lizard Man of Bloomington. In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Other music in the episode: "I Put a Spell on You." Simone, Nina. Phillips Records, 1965. This month's Christmas lit: Erdrich, Louise. The Sentence. Harper Collins, 2021.

Welcome back to this Lit for Christmas vacation party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, return to the land of scotch, talking about O. Henry's classic Christmas short story "The Gift of the Magi" and a chest freezer full of dead cats. BONUS POINTS: Help Beth title the poem she wrote for this episode! This episode is dedicated to LFC's number one fan--Helen Haskell-Remien (January 15, 1956 - August 21, 2022). "I want to be improbable beautiful and afraid of nothing, / as though I had wings." -- Mary Oliver SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Oh Henry! Ingredients: 1 1/2 oz. Scotch whiskey 3/4 oz. Benedictine 4 oz. Ginger Ale Directions: Mix ingredients. Pour over ice. Add twist of lemon is you like. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: 1 1/2 oz. nonalcoholic Bourbon 3/4 oz. Simple Syrup 4 oz. Ginger Ale Mix ingredients. Pour over ice. Add twist of lemon is you like. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she is the front desk clerk at a hotel and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "Gift of the Magi." Mitchell, Joni. Joni Mitchell Archives--Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963-1967). Rhino Records, 30 October 2020. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Henry, O. "The Gift of the Magi." New York Sunday World, 1905.

Welcome to our Christmas in July party! In this episode, Marty is joined by his friend, Madeline, as they both get hammered on sherry and hammer on Alex Haley's A Different Kind of Christmas. BONUS POINTS: Place bets as to when Marty will throw up during the episode. GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT SPIRIT: Sherry (sweet or dry) NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Nonalcoholic sherry OR fruit juice Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking. Currently, she works the Reference Desk at a library, but she will soon become a graduate student studying for her Masters of Library Science. In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Other music in the episode: "I've Been Working on the Railroad." K. H. Lee. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1QfUz9dEn8) This month's Christmas lit: Haley, Alex. A Different Kind of Christmas. Doubleday, 1988.

Welcome back to this Lit for Christmas vacation party! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, drink way too much spiked eggnog, reflect on whale sperm, and talk about writer/producer/director John Hughes' short story "Christmas '59," which was adapted for the silver screen into National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Marty says "whale penis." SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: SPIKED EGGNOG Ingredients: 4 shots Butterscotch Schnapps/Peachtree Schnapps/Bailey's Irish Cream/Rum/Whiskey of Choice 4 oz. eggnog 6 oz. heavy cream (or half-and-half, or milk) Directions: Mix eggnog and heavy cream. Pour over ice, if you like. Add liquor of choice and stir. SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Eggnog Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she is the front desk clerk at a hotel and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. Other music in the episode: "Christmas Vacation." Staples, Mavis. Warner Bros. Records, September 1989. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Hughes, John. "Christmas '59." National Lampoon, 1980.

Welcome to this Mental Health Awareness Month Lit of Christmas party. In this episode, Marty is joined again by his friend, Madeline, as they get blitzed on scotch and sodas, talk about J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye, and all that David Copperfield crap. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Marty says he's sweating. Marty would like to dedicate this episode to his good friend, Lon Emerick, who was NOT a phony. Godspeed, my friend! RECIPE FOR SCOTCH AND SODA: Ingredients: 4 oz. of scotch of choice 4 oz. of soda of choice (Diet Coke, club soda) Fill a high ball glass with ice and add scotch. Top with soda and gently stir. RECIPE FOR VIRGIN SCOTCH AND SODA AND TONIC: Follow recipe above, but substitute non-alcoholic whiskey such as Spiritless's Kentucky 74 for scotch. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking. Currently, she works the Reference Desk at a library, but she will soon become a graduate student studying for her Masters of Library Science. In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Other music in the episode: "Comin' Thro the Rye." Siobahn Miller. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLrIG51x3Jg) This month's Christmas lit: Salinger, J. D. The Catcher in the Rye. Little, Brown, 1951.

Welcome back to the third Lit for Christmas party of Season Two! In this episode, Marty and his wife, Beth, kill a bottle of red wine and dish about former U. S. Poet Laureate's Billy Collins' collection of poems Nine Horses for National Poetry Month. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Marty uses the phrase "academic snobbery." SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Red Wine SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT NONALCOHOLIC ALTERNATIVE: Sparkling fruit juice Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she is the front desk clerk at a hotel and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Collins, Billy. Nine Horses. Random House, 2002.

Welcome back to this special Saint Patrick's Day Lit for Christmas party! In this episode, Marty is joined by his friend, Madeline, venture into the land of gin again to discuss Irish writer Sally Rooney's novel Normal People. There may be a pot of gold at the end, or some aspirin and Alka-Seltzer. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Marty almost refers to Madeline as Amanda! (Hint: It's a lot!) RECIPE FOR GIN AND TONIC: Ingredients: 2 oz. of gin of choice 4 oz. of tonic water 2 lime wheels or other seasonal garnish Fill a high ball glass with ice and add gin. Top with tonic water and gently stir. Garnish with lime wheels or seasonal garnish of choice. RECIPE FOR GIN AND TONIC: Ingredients: 2 oz. of juniper syrup* 1 oz. of lemon juice 4 oz. of tonic water lemon wheel Fill high ball glass with ice. Add juniper syrup and lemon juice. Add tonic water and gently stir. Garnish with lemon wheel. * Juniper Syrup: In a heatproof bowl, add the peel and pith of one large lemon, two tablespoons of juniper berries (lightly crushed), and a pinch of loose black tea. In a saucepan, bring 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil, then pour over lemon peel mixture and let set for 15 minutes to infuse. Strain the infused water into a measuring cup, and return two cups of the mixture to the saucepan over medium heat. Add one cup of sugar and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely before using. Will keep in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to three weeks. RECIPE FROM imbibemagazine.com Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Madeline has a BA in English Creative Writing and gin drinking. Currently, she works the Reference Desk at a library, but she will soon become a graduate student studying for her Masters of Library Science. In her spare time, she enjoys reading eco-lit, true crime, and Alice Hoffman books. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Other music in the episode: "People Are Strange." The Doors. Elektra Records, September 1967. "White Christmas" found on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPiAkpZ_6pA) This month's Christmas lit: Rooney, Sally. Normal People. Faber & Faber, 2018.

Welcome back to the first Lit for Christmas party of Season Two! In this episode, Marty is joined by his wife, Beth, to guzzle some New York sours and discuss Oscar Hijuelos' Mr. Ives' Christmas. Be prepared for some drunken magical realism! BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Beth says Antonio Banderas! RECIPE FOR NEW YORK SOUR: Ingredients: 2 oz. of whiskey/bourbon 1 1/2 oz. lemon juice 1 oz. Simple Syrup Maraschino cherries Sweet red wine Pour ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well. Pour into rocks glass. Add a splash of red wine on top. Garnish with two Maraschino cherries. RECIPE FOR VIRGIN NEW YORK SOUR: Substitute alcohol free whiskey/bourbon (Ritual Zero Proof Whisky Alternative or Lyre's American Malt). Substitute pomegranate juice for red wine. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Beth has a BS in English Secondary Education. She has worked as a substitute teacher, medical transcriptionist, medical office receptionist, deli counter attendant, and Office Max cashier. Currently, she is the front desk clerk at a hotel and enjoys discussing/arguing about literature with her loving husband. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Other music in the episode: "Fairytale of New York." The Pogues. RAK Studios, November 1987. This month's Christmas lit: Hijuelos, Oscar. Mr. Ives' Christmas. HarperCollins Publishers, 1995.

Welcome to Season Two of Lit for Christmas! For this Shot of Christmas Spirit, Marty fills you in on what's coming up this year in the Lit for Christmas parties and shares a memory and poem about his sister, Rose. BONUS POINTS: Every time you see someone you love, hug them. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this bonus episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Additional bonus episode music: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" by The Piano Guys This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "Fear Not."

Welcome to our little Lit for Christmas party this Christmas day! For this special Lit for Christmas party, Marty drinks solo and shares his essay "How Lovely Are Your Branches" and his poem "Revision Suggestions for Luke." BONUS POINTS: Every time Marty says the words "Christmas Tree," add more RumChata to your hot chocolate. TODAY'S CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: RumChata Hot Chocolate Directions: Make a mug of hot chocolate Add three two four shots of Rumchata Drink Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Additional Episode Music: "O Tannenbaum" by The Vince Guaraldi Trio "O Little Town of Bethlehem" by Jesse Wall This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "How Lovely Are Your Branches" and "Revision Suggestions for Luke."

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this special Christmas Eve Lit for Christmas party, Marty drinks solo and shares his essay "How the Light Gets In" and his poem "Thoughts of Darkness and Light on the Winter Solstice." BONUS POINTS: Every time Marty says "darkness," take a shot. TONIGHT'S CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Christmas Blush Wine Directions: Uncork the bottle Pour yourself a glass Drink Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Additional Episode Music: "Leonard Cohen--Hallelujah for Cello and Piano" by GnuS Cello "In the Bleak Midwinter / The First Noel" arranged by Anne Crosby Gaudet, harp "Linus and Lucy" by Vince Guaraldi This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "How the Light Gets In" and "Thoughts of Darkness and Light on the Winter Solstice."

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this very late Spooky Season Lit for Christmas party, Amanda and Marty polish off a couple bottles of cheap white wine and talk about James Joyce's Christmas novella "The Dead." Get ready for some talk about funerals, family, and drunken stream-of-consciousness. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times the phrase "Swiss piss" appears in this episode! RECIPE FOR WHITE WINE: Ingredients: Whatever's cheap and sweet! Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Other music in the episode: "Dead Man's Party." Oingo Boingo. Sunset Sound Factory, October 1985. This month's Christmas lit: Joyce, James. "The Dead." Dubliners. Penguin Classics, 1993.

A little Lit for Christmas party for Christmas Podcast Day, featuring Marty's essay "Miracle of the Hay." Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. Additional Episode Music: "Prayer of Saint Francis" by Sebastian Temple (Instrumental) "Prayer of Saint Francis" by Sarah McLachlan This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "Miracle of the Hay."

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this better-late-than-never eighth Lit for Christmas part, Amanda and Marty get a little buzzed on Orange Creamsicles while talking about Primo Levi's essay "Last Christmas of the War" in honor of Yom Kippur. It's all about twerking Bigfoots, oracles, and finding Christmas spirit in the darkest of times. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times the word "slutty" appears in this episode! RECIPE FOR ORANGE CREAMSICLE: Ingredients: Ice 4 oz. orange juice 2 oz. vanilla infused vodka Directions: Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in vanilla infused vodka. Top with orange juice. Stir. Serve with fresh orange rounds for garnish (if you want to be fancy). NOTE: Another option is to blend the ingredients with ice to make a slushy-type drink. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. "Cardinal" sound clip from: "Last Christmas." Wham!. CBS Records, December 1984. This month's Christmas lit: Levi, Primo. Trans. Ruth Feldman. "Last Christmas of the War." Moments of Reprieve. Penguin Books, 1985.

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this official seventh episode, Amanda and Marty enjoy a little Southern Comfort cocktail while discussing Fannie Flagg's novella A Redbird Christmas. Tune in for a little downhome trash talk about Sweet Tea, book clubs, and bad endings. BONUS POINTS: Get vaccinated and stay alive! RECIPE FOR BAYOU ZINGER: Ingredients: Ice 1 1/2 oz. Southern Comfort 1/2 oz. Grand Marnier 2 oz. lemon juice 2 oz. iced sweet tea Directions: In a mixing glass, add Southern Comfort, Grand Marnier, and lemon juice. Shake with ice until well blended. Strain into a glass. Top with iced sweet tea. Add ice and wedge of lemon or sprig of mint if desired. NOTE: Adjust measurements to your taste. Amanda and Marty cut back on the lemon juice and added a LOT more sweet tea. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. "Cardinal" sound clip from: "Cardinal." Beck, Andy. Alfred Music Choral, 2018. This month's Christmas lit: Flagg, Fannie. A Redbird Christmas. Random House, 2004.

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this little pre-LFC party, Marty imbibes in some Fireball Hot Chocolate and shares his essay "Spooks of Christmas." The big LFC party will commence in a few days. In the meantime, enjoy a little Christmas ghost story. BONUS POINTS: Contact Marty and tell him how much you love his essay. RECIPE FOR FIREBALL HOT CHOCOLATE: Ingredients: Hot Chocolate 3 oz. Fireball Whiskey Directions: Prepare mug of hot chocolate Add Fireball Whiskey Add whipped cream or marshmallows Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Additional Episode Music: "Angels We Have Heard on High Grand Piano French Christmas Carol from the 18th Century 1881" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. The Muppet Christmas Carol sound clip from: The Muppet Christmas Carol. Directed by Brian Henson, Walt Disney Pictures, 1992. This episode's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "Spooks of Christmas."

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this sixth episode, Amanda and Marty get hammered on peach schnapps and orange juice while talking about Truman Capote's short story "A Christmas Memory" and the wonder (or curse) of fruitcake. As they navel themselves into incoherence, they discuss yoga and Chippendale dancers and whether to go hairy or fuzzy. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Marty tries to get Amanda to eat fruitcake. RECIPE FOR FUZZY NAVEL: Ingredients: Ice 3 oz. orange juice 3 oz. peach schnapps Directions: Pour peach schnapps and orange juice over ice in a highball glass. Stir. Garnish with orange slice or peach/nectarine slice. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Grandma's Killer Fruitcake sound clip from: "Grandma's Killer Fruitcake." Abrams, Rita and Elmo Shropshire. Dr. Elmo's Twisted Christmas, Audio & Video Labs, Inc./Orchard, 1992. This month's Christmas lit: Capote, Truman. A Christmas Memory. Perfection Learning, 1956/2000.

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this fifth episode, Amanda and Marty travel back to land of gin and get lit on the French 75 while taking on Jean Shepherd's In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash, the book that was adapted into the classic Christmas movie A Christmas Story. As we get blitzed, we talk about Blatz, growing up as Yoopers, and Martha's Vineyard. We also tackle the eternal question--to fruitcake or not to fruitcake? BONUS POINTS: Count how many bad quotes from A Christmas Story Marty manages to squeeze in. RECIPE FOR FRENCH 75: Ingredients: Ice 1 1/2 oz. lemon juice 3 1/2 oz. gin 2 dashes of simple syrup 6 oz. champagne Directions: Combine gin, syrup, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain mixture into into chilled champagne glass. Top with champagne. Stir gently. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. A Christmas Story sound clip from: A Christmas Story. Directed by Bob Clark, MGM, 1983. This month's Christmas lit: Shepherd, Jean. In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash. Broadway Books, 1966.

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this fourth episode, Marty flies solo and gets more than a little lit on Marty Schnog as he talks about his Christmas essay, "Gloop Christmas." See if you can lay your hands on some eggnog, sit back, and let Marty tell you the story of how a certain yuletide tradition started in his life. Plus, you'll learn what kind of freak Marty really is. BONUS POINTS: Can you name Marty's least favorite ingredient in any chocolate confection? RECIPE FOR MARTY SCHNOG: Ingredients: 4 shots Butterscotch Schnapps 4 oz. eggnog 6 oz. heavy cream (or half-and-half, or milk) Directions: Mix eggnog and heavy cream. Pour over ice, if you like. Add butterscotch schnapps and stir. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. Pure Imagination sound clips from: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Gene Wilder, Warner Brothers, 1971. In Dreams, Wesley Keys, 2018. This month's Christmas lit: Achatz, Martin. "Gloop Christmas." 2008.

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this third episode, Amanda and Marty get lit on Irish Roses and also get down and dirty about Seamus Heaney's poetry collection Wintering Out for National Poetry Month. Get out your Irish whiskey, put on something green, and join us in the kitchen for some bad Irish puns, Heaney hero worship, talk about Amanda's cake-making skills, and the answer to the eternal question--did Marty take his Christmas tree down yet? BONUS POINTS: Count how many times the jingle bell fairy steps in to wash out Marty and Amanda's mouths. APOLOGY: Marty apologizes for his terrible attempt at an Irish accent. RECIPE FOR THE IRISH ROSE: Ingredients: Ice 1 oz. lime juice 1 oz. pomegranate syrup 1 oz. Irish whiskey 6 oz. of ginger ale Directions: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice until 1/3 to 1/2 full. Pour in lime juice, pomegranate syrup, and Irish whiskey. Shake mixture. Add ginger ale and stir. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. To-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral sound clip from: Swinging on a Star. Bing Crosby, Decca Records, 1944. This month's Christmas lit: Heaney, Seamus. Wintering Out. Faber & Faber, 1972.

Welcome back to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits flow all year long! For this second episode, Amanda and Marty get lit on French martinis while they slur through a discussion of Philip Van Doren Stern's short story "The Greatest Gift," which director Frank Capra adapted into the film It's a Wonderful Life. Grab your cocktail shaker, mix yourself up the Spirit of Martini Present, and join us in the kitchen for some conversation on the gin versus vodka debate, whether Donna Reed is the perfect wife, how to get someone to pay $10,000 for a Christmas card, how to make Marty schnog, and, of course, the perennial question at all Christmas parties--how hungover we're going to be in the morning. BONUS POINTS: Count how many dramatic pauses Amanda takes the drunker she gets! RECIPE FOR FRENCH MARTINI: Ingredients: Ice 4 oz. premium gin 3 oz. fresh pineapple juice 1 oz. Chambord liqueur Small pinch of fine grain sea salt Directions: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice until 1/3 to 1/2 full. Pour in the gin, fresh pineapple juice, Chambord to the cocktail shaker, sprinkle in the salt, and shake vigorously for about five seconds. Pour into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with frozen raspberries or slice of pineapple Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. It's a Wonderful Life sound clip from: It's a Wonderful Life. Directed by Frank Capra, performances by Jimmy Steward and Donna Reed, RKO Studios, 1946. This month's Christmas lit: Van Doren Stern, Philip. The Greatest Gift. Simon & Schuster, 2011.

Welcome to the Lit for Christmas party, the podcast where the Christmas spirits are flowing all year long! In this inaugural episode, your hosts, Amanda and Marty, get lit on White Russians while they talk, argue, and write about Joseph Brodsky's book Nativity Poems. Grab some vodka, Kahlua, half-and-half. Pour them over ice, and join us in the kitchen for a little conversation about a Russian love shack, the definition of Christmas lit, poetry, and, of course, the perennial question at all Christmas parties--how drunk we really are. BONUS POINTS: Count how many times Marty says "you know" during the episode! (In his defense, he WAS drunk.) RECIPE FOR WHITE RUSSIAN: Ingredients: Ice 2 oz. Kahlua 2 oz. vodka 2 oz. heavy cream (or half-and-half, or milk) Directions: Fill a rocks glass with ice. Pour Kahlua and vodka into glass. Pour heavy cream/half-and-half/milk over top and serve. Lit for Christmas Party Hosts: Amanda got her undergrad at U of M in English, MFA from Goddard College, and JD from Wayne State University Law School. She's a writer, fleece-legging addict, private poetry hoarder, public child herder, heirloom seed collector, candle dripper, cocktail mixer, and Christmas geek. Marty has an Master's in fiction writing, MFA in poetry writing, and teaches in the English Department at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He served two terms at Poet Laureate of the Upper Peninsula, and has published the poetry collection The Mysteries of the Rosary from Mayapple Press. For more of Marty's thoughts and writing visit his blog Saint Marty (saintmarty-marty.blogspot.com) or listen to his other podcast Confessions of Saint Marty, also on Anchor.fm. Marty is a writer, blogger, wine sipper, easy drunk, and poetry obsessor who puts his Christmas tree up in mid-October and refuses to take it down until the snow starts melting. Music for this episode: "Jingle Bells Jazzy Style" by Julius H, used courtesy of Pixabay. "A Christmas Treat" by Magic-828, used courtesy of Pixabay. A Christmas Carol sound clips from: The Campbell Theater 1939 radio production of A Christmas Carol, narrated by Orson Welles and starring Lionel Barrymore. This month's Christmas lit: Brodsky, Joseph. Nativity Poems. Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 2002.

Join poets Amanda and Marty for a NEW Christmas podcast where they talk about Christmas books and Christmas cheer! On each episode, they will get drunk, share a recipe for a new Christmas beverage, and get down and dirty about a work of Yuletide literature. Every episode is a Christmas party! Grab a glass of something strong! Find a seat on the couch! Let's get lit! Marty is a poet, MFA program survivor, English professor, Christmas geek, and eggnog guzzler. Amanda is a poet, MFA program survivor, lawyer, Christmas geek, and mojito aficionado.