Ignoring for now, the family and food at Christmas, the things I take pleasure in this time of year are:
The candlelight reflected in the church stained glass windows.
The street Christmas lights against a grey dusk evening.
Coming home to the warmth of the wood burning stove.
The beautiful shape of the Christmas tree, and watching the lametta dance about when the door opens.
Hearing the jingle jangle of the bells I've sewn onto Christmas slippers and hats I've made.
Carols. Though not so much Christmas songs!
Making wreaths for long gone relatives and taking them to the graves. Talking to the occupants whilst I'm there.
Getting out the 12 days of Christmas diner service and admiring it.
Seeing the red berries on my front door wreath, they look so beautiful against the greenery.
The sense of excitement and expectation (forgetting that it evaporates quickly in the face of the truth)
Unpacking the nativity set again.
Wedging the camel with only 3 legs.
Gluing baby Jesus back in the manager after being dropped last year.
Knitting ridiculous themed jumpers hats and slippers for everyone.
Making seasonal produce.
Watching the smoke swirl and spiral out of the chimney.
That will do for now, I just didn't want the season to move on without taking a minute or two to observe and enjoy the small things, before it's all packed away again for another year!
How about you, any thoughts?
Is there such a thing as delicious ready meals?
How do you acknowledge Easter.