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There’ll be scary ghost stories

And tales of the glories

of Christmases long, long ago…

                                                                         — “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”

See that line there, the one about “scary ghost stories”? It wasn’t chosen just because it rhymed – it’s a direct reference to the longstanding Victorian tradition of telling ghost stories, family gathered ‘round the fire, during Christmastime. Even today, the U.K. continues the practice – although you may be gathered ‘round the telly instead of the hearth, watching something like Nigel Kneale’s version of The Woman In Black (on ITV in 1989) or the BBC’s 2009 Christmas broadcast of The Turn of the Screw.

But here in the States, it’s a different story; most don’t even know about this tradition. Such a shame, because even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, now’s the perfect time to use dark afternoons and frigid weather as excuses for a big, steaming mug of spooky.  Here, let us help:

Image via Flickr.

It’s that time of year when we all turn into creatures of habit. Holiday traditions run strong. If you love reading and writing, there’s no sense in ignoring those passions throughout the month. I’m sharing eight literary holiday traditions that you can easily make into traditions of your own.

Don't these cards just scream "Merry Christmas"? (Well, the knight, at least. He was probably screaming something before he got stabbed.)

Feel free to right click and "save as" the cards, for the full size image, and share with your friends. 

All this month, we're cracking open Quirk Throws You 5 Awesome Parties for how-tos to help your holiday party be The Greatest. This week, Holiday Cake Pops are on the menu. (This recipe can also be found in Sprinkles!) These silver and gold cake pops not only add a festive shimmer to your shindig, but they make perfectly sweet finger food to munch on while mingling!

All this month, we're cracking open Quirk Throws You 5 Awesome Parties for how-tos to help your holiday party be The Greatest. This week, Holiday Cake Pops are on the menu. (This recipe can also be found in Sprinkles!) These silver and gold cake pops not only add a festive shimmer to your shindig, but they make perfectly sweet finger food to munch on while mingling!

After decking the halls, the tree, and even your bookshelves for the holidays, it hits you: what about the front door?! With holiday guests coming and going, you can easily welcome them (and yourself) home with a festive wreath made from (what else?) books! Check out this easy DIY project for a bookish winter.