I am aware that it's only December 7th and my thoughts may change as Christmas nears and as friends leave. But for now, I have to say we have really enjoyed Advent here.
Living in a predominantly Hindu culture, we are really responsible for our own celebration of Advent and Christmas. It's been a good exercise in intention and also an opportunity to strengthen our traditions without the onslaught of commercial American Christmas and the general busyness of the festive season. We're enjoying our Jesse Tree advent wreath, lighting the candles and reading together each morning as that's our family time together. It's been easier to do this consistently as other years have found us busy with evening activities.
We've loved reading all our Christmas books and listening to Christmas music.
We are grateful for the loan of a small, lit Christmas tree! And decorations for it (from another family!), too. I brought decor but didn't bring a tree or ornaments. I am so glad for these loans.
At the same time, it feels odd to wear flip flops and sleep with the windows open... to feel no climatic indication of seasonal change. It's odd to eat gingerbread in 75 degree weather. Don't get me wrong; the climate here is lovely and comfortable. But we do miss the seasonality, the change in foods, the change in light... snow... and fellowship with you, our dear friends and family.
Will send out a digital card soon... and would LOVE to receive your cards. If you need our address, please email me. It is a huge boost to receive mail from home.
p.s. Though most (read: all) foreigners around here head home for the winter holidays, we'll be in Bangalore through Christmas and then travel east to the beach, joined by my brother and sister-in-law.
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That's very close to how we felt the Christmas we spent in Southern California. Glad you have so many generous friends to help it feel more like Christmas where you are - and you have a cheesy Rodriguez Christmas card on it's way to you! :)
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