Nativity

So Advent is truly underway, and our Advent Calendars here at Blackbirds are propped up against the light of the windows shining through. Though our children are older now, they have not lost interest in opening the windows with no thought of a chocolate reward as we've always had the simple sort, the original kind: the ones with a manger scene at their very heart,  in which the joy of taking part in an unfolding story adds meaning to what might otherwise be something of a commercialized countdown.  This little nativity scene, handed down by family, demonstrates what it's all about: the Christmas Story, forget its origins as we may. So let's at least celebrate the message of Peace on Earth and Goodwill to all Men (which of course is just old-fashioned-speak for 'everyone' before anyone gets offended). And there's nothing sacrilegious about creating a stylish mid-century modern home at Christmastime: what better setting for this treasured, vintage set than the teak sideboard in the dining room, where many a family meal will be shared, candles gleaming :  the 'manger'  at the heart of the home.