As done every year in the past we helped in unpacking the stable of Bethlehem and unwrapping all the colourful figurines, to install the set on the sideboard in the livingroom. Mary and Joseph kept an eye on their child Jesus in the crib, while the shepherds and their sheep and dogs find their spot in the straw, between a dozen or so candles. The three kings (or wise men) were added later.
During the Christmas weeks, when daylight was faxing in late afternoon, it was a contest between us whose turn it was to strike the match and light the candles or, for that matter blow them out.
With all that straw and thatched roof of the stable, it should have rung some alarm bells, and it had to happen, the roof went up in flames one Christmas. (More than 50 years later, this stable of Bethlehem, renovated by Frans with a new roof, found a stable place in Berwick with Jo and Dick, the van Wel family, together with the faithful shepherds and wise men).

It was always a thrill with the electric light switched off to see the little flames lit up the room, throwing playful shadows on the wallpaper. With the sweet smell of candle wax in our nostrils, we gathered around and sang Christmas carols, one after another, with rich full voices, with Dad in the leading role.
The air filled with the old stalwart ’De herdertjes lagen bij nachte’ (The shepherds lay down at night) down the list to Mum’s favourite ‘Het is geboren het Goddelijk kind’ (It is born, the Divine child). Mum’s voice was then in full bore, a little of key but, nobody took notice.
We all enjoyed these times of ‘gezelligheid’ and togetherness, looking into each other eyes of pure delight, watching the reflections and mysterious glow of the flickering flames. It was truly the season of light and good will.