Signs of Christmas

As Whit and I wait patiently for our very special christmas gift we have had the chance to enjoy some of the great things about winter in Strasbourg.

But first, here is Whit on the balcony. She is in her 40th week of pregnacy and that means that the bag is packed and yours truly is standing by at "Alert-5", ready to go.


Last weekend the world famous Strasbourg Christmas Market started and the vendors have fired up the vin chaud or hot wine and the city is draped in beautiful lights to bring in the season. Strasbourg is really gorgeous at Christmas so this being our last here, we wanted to take it all in. We took a stroll downtown the inaugural night to watch the lighting of the grand sapin or big christmas tree.

Here is Whit under the Chandeliers that line Rue des Hallebardes.


The city was humming with activity and excitement for this magical season to come.

The Christmas Markets bring out some wonderful traditions, such as throwing elbows in crowds and awstruck tourists barreling over people without an apology. Simple heart-warming.


While we waited at Place Kleber for the lighting of the tree we were quite impressed with Galeries LaFayette and her Christmas charm. Last year the store was under construction, but this year it looked very seasonal.


One of my favorite, no kidding, french christmas traditions is the consumption of raw seafood. Oysters or huitres are big here during the winter and vendors set up shop everywhere . Although a bushel can set you back quite a few Euros, I generally go with the to-go plate. The guy shucks 'em on the spot and the crisp night air of Strasbourg keeps your dining mates nice and cool on the half-shell.



After a good dose of Christmas crowds we were happy to wake-up Monday morning to the utter calm and unruffled repose of an all-night snowfall that covered everything.



The snow was so beautiful that we decided to trek down to the Christmas markets again, but this time, early in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.



We picked up a couple of our favorite holiday drinks. Whit went with the warm orange juice with honey...

...and I of course warmed myself up with some good 'ole Alsatian vin chaud.


As the snow continues to fall in Strasbourg we will keep you updated on the imminent arrival of our little one.