Monday, December 20, 2010

RUBY CHRISTMAS IN HAUGESUND

Haugesund has at least four kinds of weather in a week. Lately we've had, snow, frost, storm and more snow. Here is The Salvation Army "playing the Christmas in" on the town square like they have done the last sixty years.
They are loved and respected by high and low, and use Advent time to collect money to make a proper Christmas for the less fortunate.

The Christmas tree in front of the City Hall was beautifully decorated by children from all the kindergartens of our town. The tree was roped by experienced sailors, and did withstand the storm, but the decorations were somewhat messed up.


Christmastime is also when we mostly miss our dear ones, who have created our best childhood memories. Therefor it's custom to visit the graves with candles and wreaths before Christmas. Three miniature roses on the moss and cone wreath at the grave of Gunnar's parents. He has four graves to decorate every December 17th. The one of his parents, his sister Bjorg, his grandfather and cousin Ragnar. It's a privilege to honor and visit Gunnar's loved ones.

As years go by, we try to cut down on "unnecessary" gifts.
We haven't yet reached the point of money only". Gunnar has hidden in my study to wrap in some secrets.

Our house guest, Silk Kitty. seems to have adopted us. The strong affection and admiration is mutual.

Serina came home through storm and ice and immediately took up her duties. Decorating the tree and wrapping parcels.

The Kitty and Serina fell deeply in love at first sight.

Cuddling and sweet talking for hours.

Fourth Sunday of Advent we went to the annual Christmas Concert in the mighty Church of Our Savior. Luckily some of the audience wore red robes.
Photo by Serina. The church was packed for two concerts this evening, and
inner peace and spiritual needs were richly filled.

Tears of joy could not and should not be held back.

What's moving me even more, is riding past The Thousand Homes".
A large public housing complex built in the 1920-ies. Now a refugee for alcoholics, drug addicts and criminals. Every year I am moved to tears, seeing a few Advent sticks in the windows there too. Waiting and hoping is what's keeping us all going on.

At home our Kitty lies in perfect harmony.
A blessed Christmas and New Year to all bloggers in my world.



The Nordic tenors were among the performers yesterday.
They sung this song among many others.

Originated by MaryT, check hers for today

13 comments:

Robin said...

A beautiful series Felisol, thank you for sharing a glimpse of your Christmas.

Wishing you a blessed holiday and a very happy new year.

-----------------------------------
My photography is available for purchase - visit Around the Island Photography and bring home something beautiful today!

Trish said...

Oh, Felisol...how richly blessed you are to live in a Country rich in traditions that have not changed.
I long for the days of my childhood...things in America have changed a lot since then.
Merry Christmas my friend!

Gizelle said...

looks like weather and activities are keeping everyone busy...

oh....sweet guests!

Ralph said...

The wonder of the birth of our Lord is seen in so many ways and places. The Salvation Army is amazing, that all attempts to help the far less fortunate. The giving we all enjoy, Gunnar is wrapping something as special aits recipient. True, when we were little, there were so many others that made it so special. A bit bittersweet that they can’t be present - so our happy memories we cherish. The kitty has found a wonderful home, yet another gift to your family. Merry Christmas to you and your family!

Carletta said...

What a lovely and moving post!
I love the pic of Serena and the tree - a quintessential Christmas photo.
Merry Christmas wishes to you and yours with sincere hopes that all your Christmas and New Year's dreams come true!

Nakamuras on Saipan said...

Oh...!!! How LOVELY! What a beautiful picture story..!! Thank you for posting this! Truly warmed my heart.

reg said...

The Nordic Tenors where out standing. The church interior is beautiful

Gattina said...

The Salvation army looks the same in all countries ! Your cat is beautiful !

Mrs. Mac said...

I echo Trish's comment. Christmas is missing in America .. one has to look hard to find it. Secularism has just about extinguished the flame. There is much to be said about traditions .. thanks for sharing .. it's nice to see and remember.

Hugs,

Crown of Beauty said...

Tears welled up in my eyes as I read this post and looked at the pictures. So much love, warmth, and tenderness, even as you shared your simple thoughts.

Lovely daughter, lovely kitty, precious husband, lovely town...all so beautifully put together.

A blessed Christmas to you, dear friend.

Love
Lidj

EG CameraGirl said...

Thank you for sharing some of your holiday joy, Felisol. Merry Christmas!

Amrita said...

Seeing your lovely home, town an d church an d listening to the music make sme feel I have taken a rrip there.

Just pray that the people living in The Thousand Homes may find the true Light of Christmas.
The graves look so decorated with white snow.

Serina and the cat seems to be friends forever.

Happy holiday s to you

Terry said...

dear felisol...silk kitty looks so much like my sir galahad in the last picture...oh i miss him so..he was 16 years old when he left me and it was a day before valentines day...alas! just as your
sweet marcello was part of your family and silk kitty is becoming part of your family, so was my big black darling of a kitty, galahad!
i love this picutre of the cat that god gave to you felisol...love terry