In the U.S. many people (and churches) have the tradition of attending a service in which carols are sung and each participant is given a small candle that is held for the duration of the event. I remember as a girl itching with anticipation to wear my new Christmas dress and get to hold an actual lit object with a funny little paper base to keep the hot wax from my hands. I LOVED these services- people all dressed up and going out to sing their hearts out. What's not to love about that?
Here in South Africa, it seems like everyone has a 'carols by candlelight' service: the national botanical gardens, the nature reserve, the zoo, the mall and all the churches. There are so many to choose from, AND some begin as early as the end of November, that you can go to literally dozens of services throughout the festive season. Todd and I have decided that we would attend those events which we really care about. Our church just had their service and the kids' program was truly impressive. We also went to the market we really enjoy. Last year we went and realized that we were grossly underprepared. This year, I had the food ready, kids packed and then... it started to rain. We went anyways and had a lot of fun. Well... I had a blast, Em loved jumping in the water in her rubber froggy boots, Cooper loved dancing to the music and Todd enjoyed the coffee. I think we all had fun at some point, but rain at an outdoor venue isn't the most optimal option. Not to mention the lack of candles!!!
The umbrellas did make for some great colors.
Yeah, Em and I were having a fat-cheek day... like mother, like daughter!
The boys looked so festive in their camo and red and green :)
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