Christmas tree

Six word Saturday

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In Tavira, it goes like this…

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Down at the beach bar we have Santa and a lady friend, and a cute little tree.

Aside from the main town square, not a lot of money is spent on decoration, and Christmas is no worse for that.  A simple crib scene adorns a few street corners.  There is little money to spare, and food banks were operating in the supermarkets in late December.

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The council are keen to attract further tourism to Tavira, and they are spending money on infrastructure.  The natural assets and the sunshine are there for all to see, but down at Quatro Aguas major improvements are underway.  Jude might enjoy these brand new Benches.

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Maybe she’ll get to sit on them one day.  The view’s not bad….

Meantime, it’s Saturday and I hope you’re not too full of Christmas pudding to take a little stroll with me.  I’m not sure if Cate is playing Six Word Saturday this week.  It’s Boxing Day and that’s confusing, isn’t it?  Hope to see you all on Monday!

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Oh, Christmas tree!

Oh, Christmas tree, how lovely are your branches!

Oh, Christmas tree, how lovely are your branches!

I tend to be an early riser, even on these dark days before Christmas.  I love to watch the morning sky flush with colour at daybreak.  But sometimes I pull the cover up and think I’ll just snuggle a little while longer.

Until my Christmas tree goes up!  Then it doesn’t matter if I’m still half asleep. The second I plug my tree lights in, the magic of Christmas is there.  The warm scent of pine needles tickles my nose.  I make my morning coffee, and settle down beside the Christmas tree, to start my day.

Beneath the tree, the Nativity Scene; above, the angel smiles fondly down.

Unto us a child is born, king of all creation.

Unto us a child is born, king of all creation.

More of Lisa's handicrafts.

More of Lisa’s handiwork!

I had no intention to write this post today, but when an old friend comes calling, what can you do but respond?  As if by magic, Jake’s Sunday Post appeared in my Reader, bearing a beautiful Christmas Tree.  I’ll supply the carols.  Coming round for mince pies, anybody?

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Sunday Post : Concept

2012-dragon-logo-small1My weekend was a bit of a wreck, so my Jakesprinter’s Sunday Post simply didn’t happen.  But I had given some thought to the theme, Concept, and am feeling seasonal and a little nostalgic.

“So this is Christmas, and what have you done?”  So tragic, Lennon’s death.  Can you believe that it was 32 years ago?

I wonder what Christmas means to you?  My conception is the traditional one, the important factor, the boy child who was conceived.  “Unto us a boy is born, King of all Creation”.  Every Christmas my little wooden stable comes down from the loft, complete with nativity scene.

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Nativity scenes come in many forms.  The original is credited to St. Francis of Assisi in 1223.  He wanted the emphasis to remain with the religious significance of Christmas rather than materialism and gift giving.  These days, Christmas markets and all, I rather think materialsim has won.

I have heard of, though not yet seen, the szopka nativity scenes traditionally exhibited at Christmas time in Kraków.  They date from the 13th century, and include elements of architecture.  A yearly competition is held in Rynek Główny to determine the best.  That must be exciting!

Image of a szopka from Wikipedia

Image of a szopka from Wikipedia

Religion doesn’t play a huge part in my life, but I do love the carols at Christmas time.  “Peace on earth, goodwill to all men” seems like a good maxim to me.

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The wreath is in it’s traditional place on my fireplace, and the cards beginning to arrive.  My Polish family always send cards which celebrate the birth of our Lord.

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Why the Christmas tree?  The evergreen tree, which does not lose its leaves in winter, is regarded as the symbol of eternal life.  I have lots of “old friends” on my tree.

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And some beautiful hand made ornaments, proudly given to me by my Polish family on my first visit to Poland, though I’ve never been there at Christmas.

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And, of course, topped by the angel made for me by my daughter Lisa.

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I wonder if Jake’s going to use Christmas for his theme next week?  If so, I’m ahead of the game, and that’s a first!

Do you have a concept you feel like sharing?  You’ll always be made welcome at Jakesprinters Sunday Post.  Click on the flying dragon logo to be transported there.