We just finished charting the precise schedule of family visits for the holidays. They will come in waves like weather systems and just miss each other with their differing work and flight schedules. Some years are like that.
So this year for us it is all about a candle in the window, and keeping the home fires burning for weary travelers. We will play Badger of Wind in the Willows to their Moley and Ratty lost in the winter storm, tucking everyone in to our small and cozy rooms with a pot of something simple and nourishing on the stove. (Served on vintage Limoges.)
There is always so much more to do than simply waiting. But a few things are ready for the rounds of plates and drinks. A succession of special dishes to be placed here.
Even a birthday cake! (Oh the years when there is a new babe in the house at Christmas!)
These are our few silent nights for now. Sipping something warm and watching nostalgic Christmas shows. Admiring the lights. Listening to carols, and the comforting hiss and pop of the fire while wrapped up in our sleepy Badger robes and slippers.
Soon enough that familiar knock comes at the door and our folks come pouring across the threshold. It will become a noisy children's holiday.
And, of course, we would have it no other way!
I hope you are enjoying the countdown to Christmas too!
Jacqueline
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