Living

This year, haven't we had enough of turning inward already? And hibernating? Been there, done that . . . for what seems like forever. This should be the winter of not hibernating.

"This recipe is one of my favorite things to make" for the winter solstice, says Juli Everett. Not only is the soup delicious, but its ingredients are colorful, warm, and earthy — a perfect way to welcome back the sun.

To give is to love, is it not? Especially during the winter holidays, and more especially when there is no expectation of getting something in return. Here are six ways East Enders can spend their time and share their resources to help their neighbors in need.

Santa's Little Helpers

At least we have the holidays to bring a bit of cheer. If you need a few tips to set the mood, the South Fork's musicians have no shortage of suggestions.

The pandemic has ensured that this year many more stockings will be hung on the East End over the holidays. Whether you're hunkered down for your first East End winter or are an old-timer innovating traditions in light of Covid-19, here's how to make the most of things.

To light a menorah in the window at Hanukkah is to illuminate one's small corner of the world with hope. This year in Sag Harbor, for the first time in quite a while, a highly meaningful menorah will be lighted in the window of the Center for Jewish Life.

You're not really thinking of throwing some big holiday parties this year, are you? No, of course not. However, it's likely that you may be stopping by friends' and families' houses, and maybe expecting some folks and kin yourself, for low-key, safe-distance entertaining.

The winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, is also a day that many people celebrate as a spiritual holiday, to gather with a small group of close friends or family and welcome back the sun. This year, it will be Monday, Dec. 21, according to the Farmer's Almanac.

The Star's hunter-gatherer, Durell Godfrey, went shopping for "cozies" so that everyone can stay warm against the winter chill. Bundle up for a beach walk, or cuddle after walking the dog. Indoors or out, take these warm wishes, wrap them up, and share them. Remember to shop locally and drive carefully.

Carli Victoria Costello and Brian Francis Allmendinger were married on Oct. 10 in the backyard of the bride's grandfather Gary Richard in Bay Shore.

Waiting for his sweet-and-sour soup by the window of a Chinese takeout a few weeks ago, he had a brief encounter that left him longing for another, an instant connection with a woman who also loved the opera, but her number went missing, so he turned to the classifieds.

Nicholas David Miller and Lisa Mandl were married at home in East Hampton on Oct. 6. East Hampton Town Justice Steven Tekulsky officiated.

Mr. Miller, a son of Mary Cecila Koncelik Miller and Phillip David Miller, grew up in East Hampton and is the vice president of the Miller Building Company here.

The bride holds a bachelor's degree in interpreting and a master's degree in global studies. She is from Austria. Her mother, Karla Mandl, still lives there. Her father is deceased.