On days like this I open the curtains slowly so as not to startle the neighbours. Sure enough, when I do, there are five rabbits frolicking in the early morning frost just a few steps away. A good start to Christmas morning, when I often remember the giddy excitement of my childhood. Today the magic is in this moment, in the simple everyday goings on of two families. One outside the window sniffing out green shoots, one tucked up in their beds; growing, changing, transitioning.
It’s the best part of the day, this early coffee and toast, a private photo opportunity over breakfast. And even though they are men now, it is always the same when they sleep in this house, I have the illusion that they are protected and safe from harm. And especially at Christmas that dreams will come true.
This year in the space before the expectations set in, we made a joint decision that dreams are not necessarily made of gifts wrapped in packages or by playing happy families. We let each other off the hook. The perfect Christmas, the perfect day would be best if kept to a day like any other. One with love, peace and understanding, full of pleasure and freedom, a day of winter warmth inside while it freezes and storms outside.
And so here I am, easing softly into this frosty Christmas morning. Happy in these moments of calm and eager to experience a post Christmas, adults only alternative.
Perfect morning indeed !
Oh yes! What beautiful thoughts and photos to start the day with. Those quiet mornings, before anyone else gets up are my favorite.
A really lovely way to start Christmas day and any other day for that matter!
Lovely photos Catherine, and words.
This year in the space before the expectations set in, we made a joint decision that dreams are not necessarily made of gifts wrapped in packages or by playing happy families. We let each other off the hook. The perfect Christmas, the perfect day would be best if kept to a day like any other. One with love, peace and understanding, full of pleasure and freedom, a day of winter warmth inside while it freezes and storms outside.
We are kindred spirits where Christmas is concerned Catherine.
And thank you so much for the rabbit pics, they are just gorgeous.
so lovely! <3
saibhegan.blogspot.com
What a wonder! Thank you for this magical and rare Christmas present.
What a lovely way to spend the day. Happy Christmas my friend.
Dear Catherine
Wishing you a very Happy Christmas. I like your idea of doing less on Christmas Day. It then gives more meaning to the day.
Our gift giving was minimal this year.
All the best for 2014
xx
The best days are the simple days when less is more. Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year. Philippa xx
A lovely post.. with some wonderful photos :o)
As ever, beautiful images and sentiments here. Thank you Catherine for the continuing joy that is your blog. And wishing you only good things in the year ahead x
A magical start to the day for both families! Hope you enjoyed your Christmas off the hook, it's sounds a lovely way to spend it.
Sarah x
That sounds like the best Christmas. Our Christmas was very simple, too, which made it so much more enjoyable. 🙂
Enchanting photos of your very cute neighbours and a fine recipe for an enjoyable Christmas.
Enchanting is definitely the word. So lovely.
Catherine I am so far behind with reading your lovely posts…it sounds as though you had a wonderful peaceful Christmas….I feel the serenity of your day and love those adorable bunnies.