a time for roots & a time for wings: Christmas

The past week has been pretty awesome. Everyone is off from work and school, so we've all been getting to spend some quality time together. Less stressed and more relaxed, which is always a welcomed feeling!

We celebrated Christmas on the 24th. We went to church, and then shortly after we got home, the Christkind came and delivered the Christmas tree and decorations and of course, the presents!! It was so sweet to see the girls so excited. Kristina kept asking me, "Sarah, do you know what today is??!?!" I said, "December 24th?"
"No, CHRISTMAS!!!"
Hahaha, of course!
Before opening any present though, we gathered around the piano to sing some traditional German Christmas songs. It was so cute, both Elena and Kristina took turns accompanying us on the piano; both played beautifully. Then they were allowed to go after the presents!! Ah, such fun to be a child and such joy to watch excited and happy little girls! After gifts, we had salmon for supper before heading over to Oma and Opa's for more singing, gifts, and sweet yummy things!! I must say, the Austrians bake some delicious Christmas cakes and cookies. I must bring so many recipes home with me!!! Oh my, it was such a nice time. I really enjoyed all the singing in German, especially because "Stille Nacht" reminded me of my madrigal days, which were some of the best! Another special thing that I saw, which I never have before, were real candles on a real tree!! I didn't think people actually did that! It looked gorgeous though; I think I'll have to try that at some point. One of my favorite things to do at Christmas is to sit in the living room with all the lights off except the tree lights. It is so peaceful and such a great place to ponder the real reason for all the celebrating, gifts, yummy food, and all the rest. Once I got back to our house, I skyped with Kelsey for a bit, which was lovely. Her and her mom were both in the kitchen preparing things that I am sure tasted amazing, so I was just propped up on the counter top. Ha. It was great and I felt like I was actually there, except I couldn't smell the seafood stew that was cooking. I went to sleep watching "Elf" since I hadn't watched it yet this season.

On the 25th, I started "Elf" again since I'd fallen asleep on it the night before and watched it whilst getting ready for the day. We went to Oma and Opa's for lunch and stayed until the early evening. I had my first cooked goose and all the fixings, as is the traditional Austrian Christmas meal. It was quite tasty No, it does not taste like chicken, for those who are wondering. It is a darker meat and so has a taste closer to that roast beef. Then afterwards there were more of those delicious little cakes not to mention a large chocolate cake and whipped cream. Wow. It really was such a lovely day spent with all the family; I had such a nice and relaxed time. Once back at our house, we had a quick light supper and then it was off to my room for my skype fest. First the short "conference" call with my parents and brother's family in AZ. Then they had to go, so it was just me and my parents. Then it was my sister. Then it was Jessi. Then I tried my Aunt and grandparents, but they didn't answer. Then I had to call a friend back here in Austria. Ahh! So many modes of communication!! No, but it was honestly so great. Obviously I missed everyone back home and wished I could have spent the day with them too, but I wouldn't have traded my Christmas here for anything. I can't live in two places; it's high time I start reminding myself of that more often than I have been.

The nest day consisted of a wee tummy ache and staying in bed pretty much all day. But I caught up on some superhero movies, reading, and Pinterest. I was with some YAG friends the next day. I went to the theater with my family the next day. We saw a movie about two sisters who are half human and half vampire. It was actually pretty good, plus I understood it, which was evidenced by my laughter in the appropriate parts. Then the next day we were with some of Andreas's family. We walked around this old castle grounds which were really pretty, especially the pavilion.

And here are some photos. Sorry the photos have been pretty scarce on the last few posts...