I can't believe Christmas is almost here! The house is just about ready for my parents and brother to visit. I will be spending a few days in Paris with them and then we will all be in Germany for Christmas. Very exciting!
I have to say that I loooooove Christmastime in Germany. The approach to the holidays is vastly different than in the US. There's no black Friday. No crazy sales and pressure to buy buy buy. It's much more low key. Christmas here means Christmas markets which are these rows of vendors set-up in towns and cities. People visit them during the week and especially on the weekends, in which they meander their way around the vendors, eat delicious fair food and drink Ghulwein (delicious spiced, hot wine). It is the perfect way to find unique gifts and enjoy the company of your family and friends. Here are pictures from some of the local markets:
The market in Wiesbaden (closest large city to us). We went to the opening ceremony where they turned the lights on. These were the angels who danced around and turned on the lights.
So pretty with the lights on. The symbol for the city is lilies so that's why they are all over the market.
After the lights came on, Mike and witnessed the craziest performances ever. On stage is a large bubble. Inside - a woman playing the saxophone. After a few minutes someone ran on stage and popped the balloon.
Crazy saxophone lady after balloon was popped.
The market is just so pretty a night.
This is Rudesheim, the small, traditional German town near us. So pretty with the snow and Christmas Market.
This is a must-visit town for anyone who comes to see us!
In other news:
We are ready for winter!
Got all dressed up for the work holiday party! A fun night!
And, carried home our Christmas tree from the market a few blocks away. Mike wouldn't let me help :)
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season! It will be nice to have family here to celebrate! Much love to you all! See you in the new year!
~Katie and Mike
