My Christmas Blog

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round, as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys. ~Charles Dickens

I actually began writing this blog last night while listening to Pop Francis’ midnight mass.  Even though I am not Catholic, I enjoy listening and watching the Christmas Eve Mass from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.  There are numerous reasons why I try to watch this every Christmas Eve, I love the children’s choirs, pipe organ playing in the background, the opera singing, and the symphony with all the violins and cellos

The camera always pans over the crowd to the beautiful artwork and statues of the cathedral.  There’s the use of all the diverse languages from around the world; I always wanted to learn Latin which is used often in the mass. I really do not know what all the ceremony and symbolism represents; I am going to have to research the process one of these days.  I just find the entire setting beautiful. I also like the element of historical symbolism that is presented in the mass.  The Book of the Gospel which was placed by the statue of the baby Jesus was a replica of the one from 1506.  The history in the walls of the Vatican and Rome would be amazing to know and study.

The message I got from listening to the Pope was the fact, “the world needs tenderness”.  I agree with this statement from him.  I think the world could use more tenderness, good will toward fellow man so to speak. I spent most of today, Christmas Day with my family.

I brought my 95 year old great aunt out to the family gathering.  If you really want to learn about people, you should talk to someone who has been around for as long as her.  She always shares stories of time past; the best learning experience anyone could ask to receive. She also provides insight; we often go through life thinking we shouldn’t do certain things.  We hold back in telling people how we feel out of fear of rejection.  Or we fail to try something new because we think we are too old to learn. But wouldn’t you rather look back when you are 95 and say, “wow, I can’t believe I did that” than say “I should have done that when I had the chance”.

Life changes so quickly.  Be with the ones you love and show no fear.  Try zip-lining, mountain climbing, a new class or anything else that makes your heart sing.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old, familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet

The words repeat

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

From my house to yours….

Merry Christmas!

Peace always,

The Joy of Christmas Cards

Posted on by Rebecca C.

A diverse variety of Christmas cards spread out across the kitchen table, my favorite radio station is blaring loudly throughout the house. I am sipping hot tea as I glance down at my lengthy Christmas card exchange list.  I send numerous Christmas cards out each year (when I say numerous, I mean hundreds).   I even write little notes or long letters in some of the cards depending on if I get to see that person on a regular basis or not.  Enclosing a letter or decorating the envelope with stickers just adds to the overall creative process.

Since we live in technological world where social media provides an instant response to a greeting or letter; I have had people tell me that the tradition is no longer in style. In fact, I was told the tradition was a dying art. However, I love sending and receiving Christmas cards.  When a friend or family receives my card, I want them to know that I was thinking about them during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

The first Christmas card was given by Sir Henry Cole in 1843 in England.  John Horsely, an artist, was a friend of Sir Henry Cole and made the first design.  And, actually the design was criticized by some since the artwork showed children with a glass of wine.  I can only imagine what would have been said, if these critics could see some of the cards that are designed today.

As time went on, the sending of Christmas cards became more popular.  Some of the cards that were sent in the 1910’s and 1920’s were designed by hand.  The cards were decorated with art work created by ribbons, foil, and pieces of cloth.  The home crafted cards were given by hand since they could not be delivered through the post. I can remember making Christmas cards in school when I was younger to bring home to my parents.  I always used lots of color and glitter.

The Christmas cards that I send and receive remind me how delicate life can be at times.  I look down my list and realize that some of the people that I sent cards to in the past are no longer with us this year.  So, create a list, make out a card and let people know that you are thinking about them this holiday season.  Because the list may be reduced next year and you will miss the chance to tell someone that you care.

Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Over the weekend, I was fortunate enough to visit the Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm.  Growing up on a farm, I love animals, I had never seen a reindeer up close.  The trip to Clare, Michigan was worth the extra miles.  The Reindeer Farm is great for photo opportunities especially if you have children. You can even get your photo done professional right there in the little gift shop area.

 

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I was able to get my photo taken with Santa. There was no cost, you just had to use your own camera.  (please ignore my hair, the day was windy).

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I went on a small wagon ride.  During the ride, I get to hear the story of Rex and Harley, the two Belgium horses who pulled the wagon.  Rex and Harley were rescue animals who were abused.  The two beautiful horses will pull the wagon for another season before being put into retirement.  Hearing the story and the amount of work the couple put into their horse ranch/farm made paying for the wagon ride a small gesture. (The couple keeps all the proceeds from the rides).

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On the wagon trail, a tree was decorated which created excitement for the children on the ride.  I also loved the mom singing Christmas carols to her son as we went through the wooded area.  The little boy who I would guess was around three years old seemed a little apprehensive on the wagon being pulled by two huge horses.  The singing from his mother made him smile.

 

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The area where you could view these magnificent reindeer had signs filled with information and facts.

I would recommend this little farm experience for all those who are in the area of Clare, Michigan especially if you have small children.