The Christmas decorations I pulled out during Thanksgiving weekend are all now in place – tree trimmed, wreaths on the doors, and most flat surfaces adorned with a tiny village, collections of snowmen, nutcrackers or angels.
The same nativity scene has graced my home for the past 48 years. It was purchased in 1961 from the “five and dime” variety store in Ardmore, Oklahoma. It cost about $5.00.
Each piece is still intact, though the donkey has a small chip. A little lamb disappeared one Christmas long ago and was found several months later under the refrigerator. The culprit was probably the family cat.
There are only two wisemen, reminding us that the number of magi is not mentioned in the Bible, only the number of gifts. A kneeling cow, sheep, two shepherds, an angel and Mary and the baby complete the scene. And Joseph is there. I have seen creches where Joseph is missing. Of course, Jesus is the Son of God, not Joseph, but Joseph did a good thing (see Matthew 1) and he should be included.
So, house in readiness, I will now address the Christmas cards.
As of Dec 15, my house is only partially decked: no tree yet; no clean dining table; the goodies baked were sold at the bake sale and the grab bags of “stuff” prepared for the same sale did NOT sell. Maybe the family will “grab” some of them. I have been sending cards so far in reaction to the ones I receive. When all church activities are over, maybe then… pl