Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Christmas Plans

It's been almost exactly a month since my last post which is reason enough for me to write something, even if there's not much to say. I am clearly a negligent blogger.
In exactly 9 days I will be somewhere up high, probably over the Atlantic, and headed for Houston. The last time I spent Christmas in the States was in 2006, so it's time for me to head that direction again. Christmas in Austria is nice with the outdoor markets, mulled wine, candles on the tree and snowy landscapes, but it's always nice to be back "home" this time of year. Christmas in Houston for me means driving around to see the lights, shopping at the Galleria, hanging handmade stockings, eating Tex-Mex food, rearranging gifts under the tree, seeing friends and family and lighting a fire in the fireplace on Christmas morning whether it's 20 degrees or 80!
This year's Christmas shopping is about 90% done, but the wrapping will have to wait since the airlines make you unwrap everything anyway so they can see what you're hauling. My man and I are currently working on a couple of final ideas which may involve more research and effort than we originally thought. When you live overseas, the big challenge every year is to come up with original gifts that could only be found in Europe, even if the recipients don't necessarily expect that. Presents of Christmases past have ranged from Austrian schnapps to Swarovski crystal to whistling marmots.
This may be my last post for a while so I'd like to wish everyone (that means all three of you!) an enjoyable holiday season, wherever you may be celebrating! I look forward to seeing you in the new year.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Hi from California! Looking forward to having you a "little closer" during Christmas, even if I won't see you. Enjoy your visit!

Phyllis