Let's not forget today is Christmas in Kazakhstan. The Russian Orthodox Christmas is celebrated throughout Eastern Europe with the tradition of Ded Moroz ("Grandfather Frost"). He's accompanied by his granddaughter Snegurochka ("Snowmaiden"). According to legend, he travels in a magical decorated sleigh drawn by reindeer, and delivers gifts to children. (He's more Santa than Saint Nicholas.)
The tradition of celebrating Christmas has been revived since 1992, after decades of suppression by the communist government. There's a Christmas Eve "Holy Supper", which consists of twelve servings, one to honor each of Jesus' apostles. The Russian traditions were largely kept alive by shifting some of them, including the visit by gift-giving "Grandfather Frost" and his "Snowmaiden", to New Year's Day. Many current Russian Christmas customs, including their Christmas tree, or "yolka", were started by Peter the Great.
Merry Christmas Connor/Garrett. Sorry, but your gift of a forever family will be delayed by a couple of months (or so). Hang in there son, we're coming, we're coming.
1 comment:
Hi: Just wanted to take a minute to introduce myself---i'm a single adoptive mom of a Kaz cutie in 2004--she is my delight, as I'm sure your child will be for you! Best wishes on your process and thanks for blogging---it brings back so many great memories!
Quaintance
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