Advent

Our Advent traditions have changed over the years.  This year we are having a cup of tea and a small sweet after dinner, just as a time to unwind and reflect together on the day and the season.  We've finished the outside chores and are just waiting for snow. 

We have begun the Nativity fast, so these desserts will be vegan.  The first one we tried was an intensely flavored (with crystallized ginger) gingerbread cupcake with lemon frosting.  This next one will be served tonight, a Chocolate Almond Kahlua cake with the same flavors repeated in the frosting.

I've put up some of the seasonal decorations, including St Lucia figures and St. Nicholas.

The tea set is polished and ready for use, too.

Advent tablesettings in the kitchen, where we eat breakfast and lunch, and the dining room, where we eat dinner are festive.

The Dickens Village is on the buffet.

Other decorations line the stair rail.

And the Lladro Nativity has a special place.

Knitting is occupying my evenings and spare moments.  These are going to be my first gloves.

Comments

[Elizabeth]

What gorgeous photos !

[Mimi]

What sweet figurines! What a blessing to have them!

A blessed Advent to you and yours.