Christmas.

Our first Christmas in Austria was very simple, and sweetened with the presence of a sibling! Ben was able to come from Istanbul for a few days, and we were so happy to have him! We met him in Vienna and spent the day trekking around, showing him all the famous spots. We ended our walk at the Rathaus (city hall) where a large Adventmarkt was taking place.

So many delectable for the eyes (and appetite) to feast upon!

 Enjoying the traditional Gluhwein - a hot wine spiced with cloves, ginger, and cinnamon.

 Michael was happy to have some Kinderpunsch.

 And we sampled a "pfannkuchen" also know as a Berliner donut.

Christmas Eve was a gloriously sunny day. We secured a car and drove Ben around the nearby countryside and the Winerwald (Vienna Woods). We stopped at Stift Heiligenkreuz hoping to get a tour and to see the ceremony of the Light of Bethlehem. There is a beautiful tradition in Austria (and probably in the surrounding countries) for a light lit from the light which burns at Jesus' birthplace in Bethlehem to be carried to the Catholic churches, and distributed on Christmas. The light was scheduled to arrive at the monastery at noon, so we were able to watch that event. Unfortunately, the tour time that we bought was combined with a very large German tour group; no chance of English being spoken there, so we got a refund - will have to come back!

 We watched as the locals rode their horses into the courtyard for a special blessing before the Light of Bethlehem was distributed.

After a few prayers, one of the monks played "Ihr Kinderlein, kommet" (O Come, Little Children) on the tower carillion while everyone sang. Then everyone recieved the light of Bethlehem to carry home.

At lunch, Uncle Ben was introduced to Michael's latest fascination with water; putting food into his water glass, then drinking it. :D

 Ready for Christmas Eve Mass with Great-Grandpa Lee's bowtie.

(Poor Dominic is going through a rough bout of cradle cap.)

 Despite the very windy evening, we managed to bring back the Light of Bethlehem from the parish church here in Trumau - Michael was happy to be given a chance to hold the lantern and help Mama light our candles.

Such a tiny flame, such a tiny Babe bringing such great warmth, peace and hope and dispelling such great darkness!

 Christmas Day breakfast with our friend, Annemarie.

 Then Michael watched "The Little Drummer Boy" with Papa. After naps, we sat down to open a few gifts. Michael had fun ripping the wrapping paper.

 Thank you Nana, for the beautiful Nativity flap book - Michael loves looking under each flap.

So excited to have a little toy model of his favorite mode of transportation!

Our gift to ourselves was a coffee maker and plans to do more traveling in the new year. :) Ben and I exchanged gifts from our respective countries of residence - I got him chocolate, coffee, schnapps, sausage and cheese; he gave me a beautiful scarf, mugs and baklava. We went over to our American friends, the Owens, for dinner and had a lovely relaxing time. It was nice to enjoy their Christmas tree, as budget and space restricted us from setting up holiday décor this year.

 On the 26th, we took the train and subway to Schonbrunn Palace. Michael loved having Uncle Ben close by to talk too.

All bundled up.

 We had a very nice tour of 40 rooms of the palace (sadly, no pictures allowed). A highlight was standing in the room where 6 year-old Mozart gave his first concert.

The rest of the time was spent relaxing, playing games, and enjoying playing with the babies. Thank you for visiting, Uncle Ben, please come back soon!

We pray that you, our dear family and friends, are experiencing a most peaceful and joyous Christmas season!

"For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called 'Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.' Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end..."

Isaiah 9:6-7