Haley's Handy Dandy Blog: Christmas Eve and Christmas 2008

Christmas, one of my favorite holidays. I have always enjoyed the time spent with family, laughing, playing, and making memories that will last a lifetime. This year my holiday season was much different that any I have ever had before. There was no hustle and bustle, or crowding at the stores. I did visit the market this year to buy a few presents for my family and for Jes, but this year was a money saving holiday season for me. Although gifts are given by some here in Nicaragua, not all get into the giving. More focus on the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus' birth. My Christmas Eve was spent with Jes in Masaya. We spent the day with one another talking, watching a movie, and enjoying a meal out. After dinner we said goodnight, and looked forward to the day ahead. Jes headed back home to be with his family, while I stayed at a hostel in Masaya. The next morning Jes arrived to pick me up, and we headed back to Managua to spend the Christmas day with one another. Not only Christmas day, but his birthday as well. Yes, Jes was born on Christmas day. We left in the morning on a bus back to Managua. We made a stop at a place called MetroCentro, which is a mall, to eat a lunch at the foodcourt there. Afterwards we headed to my place to enjoy the rest of the day relaxing and spending it together. I had hopes of spending the day with his family, but that was not an option this year. His Mom ended up working Christmas Day and his brothers and sisters were enjoying time with their own families and extended families. Maybe next year we can spend some time with his family during the holiday season. So all in all, I had a great Christmas, but it was very different from what I am used to back in the states. Here the stores were open, people were working, and for many life continued just like every other day. It was strange, but as I said before, I enjoyed spending the day with Jes for our first Christmas with one another. I hope that you and your families all had a blessed holiday and celebrated the birth of our Savior. Merry Christmas y Feliz Navidad!

Me & Jes on Christmas Eve

Jes wearing one of his gifts I had made for him. He loved it!