01 02 03 The French Adventure: Christmas!! 04 05 15 16 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 31 32 33

Christmas!!

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Our first Christmas in France!! We were able to make some new traditions, keep some old ones, and mainly enjoy a lot of family time. We had Henry's end of the term Christmas concert in the big cathedral as a close to the school year. 


They were all singing French and English songs, and a lot of them! We were impressed with all of the words they memorized. 


This picture shows how big the cathedral is- it felt cold and cavernous, and honestly, a bit medieval until they started singing John Lennon's classic Christmas tune, " War is Over" hmmm... Oh well. I did hear a French "Jingle Bells" in the mix! 

 We went to a nearby town two days ago called Montpeyroux and walked around. It was so fun to just explore the little hills of cobblestone together. 





Their little church in the middle of town.

Their view overlooking the valley below.. 





We are working on perfecting the selfie :) 


We tried to take Henry to play laser tag but you have to have 6 people. Probably would be good information to put on the website! Ha! 


We have had such restful time at home these past few days. Gant made us a great fire everyday!


Dancing in the kitchen...


Looking at old pics...



Playing Clermont- Ferrand Monopoly...

Enjoying our little tree...


Making monkey bread... 

Going to the center of Place de Jaude at night....

Reading time...

Opening gifts sent from so far away- means so much!! 



And celebrating Jesus' birthday!!!! What a special Christmas. We certainly miss our friends and family so, but have enjoyed the stillness and quiet as well. There is definitely not much commercialism of Christmas here. We didn't hear music in stores or see lights in people's homes or even see any references to Jesus around us. It was all on us to define the time and the meaning- and it taught me a lot about the whole season. As with so many things here... It just gives us the opportunity to see situations and ourselves with a new set of eyes. We are grateful for all we are continuing to learn. 

We are off to London on Saturday! 
Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noel!!! 


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