i'm so thankful for xander. i really don't know what i'd do without him. it's a pain traveling with him and importing him to the countries i live in, but it's so so worth it. he is so snuggly, no matter what kind of day he's having. he's affectionate and loyal. he rarely barks (except when the doorbell rings or he hears something strange), he lets me move him around however i want, he always comes when i call him, he's very low maintenance, doesn't beg much, and is happy to sleep between my calves all night until i wake HIM up. he's just the best dog i could ever have asked for. he's my closest family/friend. my baby. *sigh*
xander asleep on my chest
in catalonia (the region of spain i live in), there is a christmas tradition involving this little log. it's called "caga tio" or "poo log" and it makes its appearance on december 8 every year. children put a hat on the one in their house and cover it with a blanket. they tend to it until christmas eve, making sure it's "fed" and happy. then on christmas eve they beat it with sticks and it poops out some little christmas presents.
its back legs are usually shorter than its front legs so the presents can fall out easier.
there are huge ones (like this) or smaller ones that can fit on end tables.
what a strange and fun tradition!
i'm not usually one to decorate much for christmas, especially since i've been living alone for a few years, but this year i decided to deck the halls a bit. i got some little christmas trees and decorations to spruce up the living room and kitchen. with an apple cinnamon candle burning, cookies out, and christmas music playing i can almost convince myself i'm at home here. :)
i could only find a sign in spanish but my neighbors have a "merry christmas" sign on their door...
they'd be up for a trade, right?
liz is coming in three-ish days! i can't wait, i can't wait! it'll be nice to have someone to talk to who a) knows me! b) has english as their mother tongue c) doesn't want to take me to museums d) who brings me presents from america e) loves me and i love her! really, i'm very excited to chill out with her and explore the city (and maybe other cities) with my favorite, least annoying, most care-free travel partner, my been. <3 p="">
