Christmas Eve Day in Mexico

Christmas Eve Day: 
There is a strong NORTE wind blowing as I write to you about the most recent Xmas experiences in Mexico...  Gord is downstairs making his infamous peanut mound treats, the poppy seed bread is made, and the cabbage rolls are in the oven. 

Several nights ago, I walked with my friends from the village in the Posada: Two young people carry the statues of Joseph and Mary followed by villagers singing as we walked...or, in my case, humming...lol 

We stopped at two designated homes where a song was sung asking for shelter and to which those inside turned us away. At the third home, the song is sung and those within, open the door telling us there is no room in the house leading the procession to the side garden where a stable stands ready to accept the statue of Joseph and Mary.  

This is followed by a joyful dance around the pinata which is smashed and candies thrown for children to gather..  This procession happens twice before Christmas Eve at which time a third procession carries the statues to the Stable in the town square where it is joined by the statue of the Baby Jesus brought by a woman ( dressed as Mary)  holding a real baby, on a donkey led by a man dressed as Joseph.  I will get to see this tonight right before Mass. 

Attending the Christmas Party at the local Primary School  is always a highlight of the Xmas season for me.. Without the snow it is difficult to get into the Xmas mood.. However, this changes once the concert begins. The program I volunteer with supports students at the school and also built a shelter on the grounds so we are always included in their events. 

The courtyard of the school was buzzing as everyone arrived. 

Last Minute Adjustments 

We are ready and excited 

                                                 


 Many of us will remember being part of a nativity play at the Xmas Concert; perhaps  as "angels" or even more exciting.....Mary or Joseph!!!.

When my kids were young the powers that be had already decided no more nativity plays at the schools in Canada....

Our little local primary school has found a way to recognize the many faces of Xmas without exclusion.  

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Las Pastorelas:  Dating back to colonial times, Shepherd Plays are light hearted stories about the shepherds adoration of the Christ child.  First they are visited by an angel announcing the birth.  As they try to make their way to Bethlehem they are plagued by a series of evils and misadventures provoked by the devil who does not want them to reach their destination. ( from Yucatan Today) 

Lots of Christmas trees, cards and ornaments made by the children out of recycled materials were on display.

 Yes, we are now in the Xmas Spirit and hope you enjoyed our sharing it with all of you.

Christmas Day is the same here as in Canada... Relatives come from far and near as friends and family spend the day together.  We will be sharing a quiet Christmas brunch with good friends treasuring the memories of Christmas past with family and friends in Canada!.

FELIZ NAVIDAD y BUEN NUEVO ANO

Dorothy and Gord