More to Christmas

There's more, much

more to Christmas

Than candle-light and cheer;

It's the spirit of sweet friendship,

That brightens all the year;

It's thoughtfulness and kindness,

It's hope reborn again,

For peace, for understanding

And for goodwill to men!

--- Anonymous

We are back safe and sound from our quick trip and we had a delicious dinner and a wonderful visit with my Dad, stepmom, sister Amanda, her husband and my totally darling nephew and niece, Nino and Jasmine. As always, we all think our little ones are just the cutest and smartest kids ever and they are no exception! Both of Nino's front teeth are gone, but I forgot to ask him if that is what he wanted for Christmas! He actually wants a snowboard. Jasmine has grown and blossomed since the last time we saw her. (which was Father's Day) She is gibbering away and now loves to have her picture taken. (she will be 3 in April and Nino will be 8 at the end of this month) I'll post more photos tomorrow.

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I forgot to show you the Christmas tree pins Mike brought home for me from his last trip. They are so spectacular in person and I love each one! The snowman is newer and made by Kirk's Folly (stamped on back). It is for sale if anyone is interested. See below.

Kirks Folly Snowman pin covered in clear crystals. Black crystals for eyes, nose and buttons. Aurora borealis crystals dangle from the bottom. If you are a collector, this pin has been

discontinued.

$ 20.00 which includes priority shipping & insurance.

From the book "Victorian Christmas", A Peter Pauper Press book, 1989.

Games, Dances, and Pantomime

In Victorian times, Christmas festivities continued for twelve days, during which the Victorians especially enjoyed dances, pantomime and parlor games. Dressing in costume was also customary.

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"The old housekeeper had been consulted; the antique clothes-presses and wardrobes rummaged, and made to yield up the relics of finery that had not seen the light for several generations; the younger part of the company had been privately convened from parlor and hall, and the whole had been bedizened out, into a burlesque imitation of an antique mask."

---from Washington Irving's "Old Christmas"

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Games such as blind man's bluff and charades amused children and adults alike. (remember no TV or video games back then) Families also enjoyed going to the theater to see plays like Puss in Boots, The Ogre of Rat's Castle, Harlequin or a Punch and Judy show.

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As Twelfth Night approached, the dancing ceased, the decorations and greenery were put away, and the New Year began. Soon came the feast of Epiphany, commemorating the day on which the three wise men were guided by the star to the stable at Bethlehem.

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HAVE AN UNHURRIED DAY!