It's ChristmasTime!

Let the merry bells keep ringing, Happy Holidays to you!

On the evening of December 23rd, we took the light rail downtown with Jill and the kids.  We wanted to see the Christmas sparkle before going to a Christmas concert.

Jill and the kids rode the carousel in Westlake Plaza while Tom and I waited under a sheltering tent.

 After two days of dry weather, it was raining, of course.  That just added to the sparkle.

 The Macy's star, which used to be the Bon Marche' star, reflected in a nearby window.

 Umbrellas, lights, and law enforcement abound. 

 In Westlake Center, in the Made in Washington store, Isaac found a "rain globe".  Of course!  Much more appropriate than a snow globe. 

 We walked over to Pacific Place in time to see the 6:00 snowfall, the only place it was falling. 

 Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

 We grabbed a quick meal over at the food court at Westlake Center before walking to the Sheraton Hotel to see the Gingerbread Village. There was a long line, so we just viewed it from the back side.  That worked. 

Hawaii

Seattle

 Mexico

 Bethleham

 Then we walked the five blocks, hoods and umbrellas up, to Benaroya Hall.

 There the Northwest Boys Choir and several other local choirs and members of the symphony presented A Festival of Lessons and Carols, with plenty of sing-alongs of familiar carols.  It was beautiful!

 Now it's December the 24th.  Preparation is going on in several households, as we continue our movable feast through Christmas, begun December 20th at Jan's house.  

Christmas Eve is at our house.  The table is set.  Tom has the grill ready for the beef and has cracked and shelled the crab.  I decorated.  

Soon there will be more cooking, and the family will be gathering and there will be eating and laughing and fun, and sparkle.  I love sparkle. 

Tomorrow morning the feast moves to Jill's house.  Santa comes to the house where children live. But he brings us all presents!

I hope your stocking are hung with care.  St. Nicholas will soon be there, even if it is just to fill you with the Spirit of Christmas!

Love and joy come to you, and to you glad tidings too!
Merry Christmas!