THE HOUSE IS READY FOR CHRISTMAS.

Decorations are in place,



tables are set,
packages are under the tree, home-baked fruitcakes and coffee cakes are in the freezer, as are lasagne, cappelletti, homemade broth and parmigiane. Everywhere, there is that particular once-a-year "scent" of memories:

special handmade tree ornaments collected over a lifetime, the joy of opening my mother's treasure-laden Christmas boxes sent from California over the years, hugging my children after months of absence as they arrived from the States just in time for Christmas, sipping brulet, roast chestnuts and other hearth cooking, steaming mugs of cinammon flavored coffee sipped by a roaring fire, Maurizio bringing in "the Christmas log" which burned all day on Christmas Eve Day, special gourmet meals on beautifully laid tables, opening gifts - slowly - as to make it last forever - by the tree, florist deliveries...the JOY of family!

Christmas - a truly magical holiday!

Comments (3)
Beautiful post, Mary, and wonderful pictures.
Donna
Posted by Donna | December 19, 2007 7:56 PM
Posted on December 19, 2007 19:56
Mary, I can read just how happy you are with your kids there and the memories of years. And...you have a US size Christmas tree!
I know I owe you a long e-mail--haven't forgotten.It will come. Have a wonderful Christmas.
Jane (and Ken and Casey)
Posted by Jane | December 20, 2007 5:24 AM
Posted on December 20, 2007 05:24
Mary, It does look magical! I love the details. Beautiful Murano angels, and gorgeous carolers! Have a wonderful Christmas with your family!
SOMEDAY we will spend a Christmas in Italy!
Love and Hugs,
Palma and Brad
Posted by Palma | December 23, 2007 3:24 AM
Posted on December 23, 2007 03:24