Embracing the magic

There's just something about this time of year that has always enchanted me.  Of course, as a kid, it was the excitement of the presents, and the impossibility, but reality, of Santa Claus and his flying reindeer.  But as I grow a little older (though Mom still won't own up to playing Santa every year), I think the magic gets a little stronger.

It's a season when you can walk down the streets and wish passerby a Merry Christmas.  You can look up and see the evergreen wreaths, mistletoe hanging from doorways, and beautiful strands of little lights winking at you as you stroll by.  The carols are captivating, the Christmas cookies are filling and the fires inside are just waiting for red noses and numb fingers to come in and soak up the warmth.

I remember very clearly my Christmas season in Hungary.  It was easily the most difficult time of the year, being away from family, in the midst of unfamiliar traditions.  So I was prepared for that this year.  But I'm thinking Vienna's doing a pretty good job of reminding me of that cozy Christmas feeling.

I went into the city on Saturday to meet up with some friends and go to one of the Christkindlmarkts (Christ child market, also known by Christmas market).  We decided to go to the one at the Palace Schönbrunn.  All I could do was smile, wide-eyed, all bundled up in my layers of clothing, boots, scarf, hat and gloves.  There was a giant tree, a brass ensemble playing Christmas carols, a choir singing and tons of booths selling locally made gifts and Glühwein (mulled wine).

Of course I miss my family (and friends!) at home.  But I'm keeping my chin up with lots of Christmas music and the rest of the warm traditions.

Happy Advent to you all!

Wishing you Christmas joy, grace, and peace,
Hilary

P.S. Happy St. Nicholas day!  I woke up to a surprise of an orange, some nuts, and a St. Nicholas chocolate!