Unfortunately, I can never get these vertical photos to rotate...but you get the point. This is our neighbor Peter, who played the part of St. Nikolaus. Abby said she knew he wasn't real because "his brown eyebrows didn't match his hair";)
Today, authentic, homemade Austrian treats brought over by one of our neighbors to help us celebrate St.Nikolaus Day!
As if there wasn't enough excitement around here, but our good friend (a pastor and missionary from St. Andrews) Gordon Woolard arrived this morning from the States. He is on his way to teach in Kenya, but stopped for a few days to hang out! This afternoon we went to the Schönbrunn Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas Market). We enjoyed looking at all of the beautiful things and even saw the "real" St. Nikolaus, who was passing out goodies to the children.
Our kids are a bit confused, as Santa never looked so slim, nor did he ever wear a bishop's hat and carry a staff in the US. To clarify (or maybe add to the confusion), Brad keeps calling St. Nikolaus "Santa's Austrian brother". In Austria, Nikolaus comes on Dec. 6 and either fills shoes or little bags for the kids and then the "Christ Child" comes on Dec. 23 with presents and decorates the tree only then. (And a friend told us that in Italy Santa's wife brings presents on 3 Kings Day in January.) Classic.
Back at our place, Gordon enjoys a good beer, while Luke shows off his new Nutcracker and Levi "cheeses" for the camera!
3 comments:
Wow, you have great neighbors. Are there any open apartments in your building? :)
I am sure that it is so great to see Gordon. I pray he is an encouragement and joy to you in the next few days.
Those goodies look delicious!! God has definitely blessed you with some neat neighbors. I am sure that your openess and wonderful gift of hospitalilty draws them to you. Praise God!
Tell Wooly we say hi! Craig asked about you guys at lunch today. We love and miss you! love, matt and kim
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