On the First Day of a Feminine Christmas
Such beautiful, solemn grandeur greeting this first day of December. Readers, the short Advent weeks will hurry past us more swiftly than usual, with Thanksgiving so late this year. It leaves me wondering, in that old-fashioned way—are we truly prepared for the season to unfold?
I felt a thrill when I discovered this photograph, likely from the 1940s. There is something about it that calls to the heart: the soft glow of rapturous music, the stately hall with its windows opening onto a dreamlike New York skyline. The Empire State Building rises like a benevolent sentinel, recalling a time when the city still carried the sheen of gentility and grace. One can almost hear the rustle of satin-lined wool coats and the charged hush that falls before a Christmas chorus begins.
In recent years, Christmastime has seemed quieter—still lovely, but missing the splendor I remember from long-ago Decembers when everything felt touched by enchantment. And so, this season, I’m letting myself reach back a little. I’ll slip into the wooden pews of an old church to hear a friend sing, wear my new sequinned skirt to a little boutique luncheon, and take an evening stroll through the city just to see the lights shimmer against the cold. There will be tender home celebrations too—lamplight, warm cups, familiar comforts. But this year, I intend to welcome back a bit of the old pomp and pageantry, the kind that once made Christmas feel special and luminous.
In that same spirit, I’m letting my hopes shape my gift-giving this year. I want to choose little luxuries for the people I love—comforts that kindle joy, things they might never think to choose for themselves.
And if these little comforts bring a bit of warmth to their days, then I’ll know I’ve shared a touch of the old Christmas enchantment—my own quiet way of loving them during this grand season…
6 Comments
Marta
I was so excited to see your first Feminine Christmas post and waited until all was calm and quiet to read and enjoy; and it did not dissapoint. I love your throwback musings – they are what make these posts so special. I will now commence to again, re-read from the beginning all of your Feminine posts as I do every year…
A Lovely Inconsequence
I am so tickled that you read all my Feminine Christmas essays! Thank you so much Marta….Best comment!
Tracy
You always find the most beautiful pictures. Thank you for sharing them with us!
Watching The Bishop’s Wfe and can see that your picture matches the era. It occurred to me that at the time of the filming, my mom would have been about 10 years old. I have an angel topper that she picked out with her dad and it looks as if she fits right in. Kinda sweet that I can have a glimpse of her childhood Christmas. She also gave the best gifts too!
Enjoy your lovely Advent time in preparation for a lovely Christmas.
A Lovely Inconsequence
Tracy, I love that you have that angel! The Bishop’s Wife is one of my very favorite Christmas films…
Karen
Thank you for this lovely, serene reflection. I smile because I’ve recently purchased for my daughter some luxuries for peaceful moments that she would never buy for herself. I’ve been inspired to restful enjoyment for myself too. Wearing things “too dressy” for ordinary outings but feeling inspired to dig deep into contentment and peaceful acceptance of how things are and make the most of the little moments. Thank you, Donna, for your feminine Christmas series. Enjoy the enchantment of this special season.
xo The Other Karen
A Lovely Inconsequence
Merry Christmas Karen! And thank you for your faithful readership!