Christmas in France

Usually during this time of year I am much too busy planning a trip back to the States to really pay attention to the festivities going on around here.  At this time last year, Nathan and I were already back in the States enjoying all things American like Starbucks and shopping.

The only other Christmas I spent in France was the one when Nathan was born, and I was much too sleep deprived to really notice anything around me.

But this year I really want to make an effort to get out and enjoy Christmas time in France.  Maybe it's the fact that I want to make happy Christmas memories for Nathan.  That even though his mom gets homesick, he should still be allowed to revel in the holiday magic.

So Cornel and I have decided (ok, I have decided) that we will go out and cram as much holiday cheer as we possibly can!

We've seen the tree downtown...

The tree at Place Jaude

We've been to the Christmas market by the Cathedral...and enjoyed the holiday food.

The Christmas market at Place de la Victoire with the Cathedral in the back

Aligot (mashed garlic cheesy potatoes) with saucisse and a hot wine

We've even take a tour of our little suburb (Chamalieres) in the evening to enjoy the lights and the Christmas tree.

the tree in downtown Chamalieres in front of the church

the lights at the Parc de Montjoly in Chamalieres

And what do we have to show for all of this wonderful holiday cheer that we are sharing with the boy?

A crying, screaming very unhappy toddler!  If that doesn't say Christmas cheer I don't know what does.