I put it in a very safe place.

The words my family dreads hearing because it's quite possible that once I've put it someplace "very safe", whatever it is will never be seen again.

Oh well, I know the Nativity Angel is around here someplace.  But I made do and when Baby Jesus arrived so did the Angel and shepherds. Now the Magi have made their appearance just as my college kids left again for another semester of "serious" study! The house is too quiet and I miss them but today was considerably calmer than it was two days ago.

I took pictures of our rugged, 30 year old nativity, some in the daylight and some in the dark because I was trying to imagine being a new mother in the dark of night, with just the stars for light. I don't imagine they had electricity 2000 years ago.

The Wise Man's head hasn't fallen off yet (thanks to Gorilla glue) and I'm sure an artistic person would have long ago replaced the camel's ears and the noses and other missing parts of a few of the figures.  

But, it's our "family tradition" and we all have a special place in our hearts for the gift of the Christ Child.

I hope your Christmas brought you peace and that the New Year brings you much love and happiness!