Tag Archives: Advent

All God’s Creatures

The tiny mouse paid scant heed to the snow and cold when I parked in the street. Out of nowhere, it scurried faster than I down the street in the early morning darkness. Where did it shelter? Under a snowdrift? … Continue reading

Posted in a tiny mouse, All God's Creatures, Franz Gruber, Josef Mohr, miracles, Oberndorf, St. Nicholas Church, Stille Nacht/Silent Night | Tagged , , , , , , | 23 Comments

Recalling German Village Life in Advent

We lived in a magical German village called Schweindorf during my first Fulbright year. Our children counted down the days until December 25 using Advent calendars. They put a BIG shoe outside their door the evening of December 5 for … Continue reading

Posted in candles, Christ Child, Fulbright Year, gingerbread houses, Nikolaus | Tagged , , , , , | 23 Comments

The Beauty of December

  Nature’s Sense of Humor Softly, quietly, gently falling snowflakes clothe the earth in beauty. Catching them in our gloved hands to gaze at their shapes is part of the fun. Kids lean their heads back with open mouths to … Continue reading

Posted in Costa Rica, nature, snow | Tagged , , , , , , | 18 Comments

A Magical Time of Year

‘Tis a magical time of year when Advent arrives along with sights, sounds and warm, spicy smells. It never grows old as we watch the faces of young children eagerly awaiting the arrival of Santa. Letters and cards written. Stockings … Continue reading

Posted in Advent Wreath, Advent, Nikolaus, customs, Germany, traditions, cultures, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 8 Comments