* State Auto Nativity ~ An Advent/Christmas Tradition

From the time I was a wee girl, the life sized nativity scene at State Auto in Columbus has been a highlight.  Every year the insurance company adds to the collection or replaces broken pieces.  The familiar story never gets old and each year I feel like I am seeing it again anew.  Indeed, I am seeing it anew for the story of God intervening in the world is never old.  I can sing with the hymn writer, "such love, such wondrous love".

I confess I miss downtown Columbus during the holiday season.  Remember Lazarus?  The display windows around the front and side of the store were a child's delight.  I could stand there for what seemed like hours watching the little animated world within.  It was a delight to each generation.  I recall my children standing in front of the windows on the little bridge the store constructed for little ones watching the scenes.  Then, we would follow the red foot prints which led to the specially decorated elevator to the magical 6th floor.  We always ate at one of the Lazarus eateries and then walked to the Ohio Theater for a performance of Nutcracker or Christmas Carole.  Remember those days?

This evening we enjoyed vespers at Holy Cross Orthodox Church celebrating St. Nicholas Day. Then we made our annual pilgrimage to the Nativity display, which I share with you, but especially with Margaret and Helen.



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