This is the beginning of the real quiet time in Germany. At the very minute (it is 2 p.m.), all shops close their doors and stay so until 28 December (Monday).

This is the time to bake cookies, listen to Christmas music, or blog. Most other German families are getting ready to drag the tree inside and start decorating it. We did that three weeks ago, a bit later than most Christmas celebrating families in the U.S.A, but much earlier than families in Germany.

Christmas Eve dinner has to be simple and quick – ours will be Sauerkraut, Rippchen (loin ribs), and mashed potatoes. Afterwards it is time to open the window to let in Christkind to deliver the presents.

If you are in Germany, then open your window or step outside around 7 or 8 p.m. There is no sound to be heard, most traffic has stopped, and its total stillness is amazing on this Holy Night.