Spirit of the Season

I so prefer Christmas in Troyes than in the U.S. Maybe it's because of the overplaying of Christmas songs on every radio station. Maybe it's the massive traffic jams and lack of parking the entire month before. Maybe it's the stress of family issues: "So and so says s/he isn't coming unless X Y and Z demands are met." "Uh-oh, this relative is having the Crisis of the Year." "Token drunken drama queen of Christmas 200__ is..."
But alas in France... no radio in my apartment to blast obnoxious carols. No car, hence no issues with traffic and parking. And being 7,000 miles away from my family will drastically reduce any unneccessary stress (bless their hearts-- I will miss them tons on the actual day).
What does Troyes have? An ice skating rink newly set up in Place de Ville. Freezing temperatures (but no snow... yet. Fingers crossed!). Today I was walking down the main street and heard loud music-- NOT Christmas music, or maybe it was but because it was in French I couldn't tell. Then I realized there are speakers set up all around centre ville playing music. And new little stands are popping up everywhere: first the roasted chestnuts & churro stand, and the latest addition... a stand with the usual crepes, gauffres and VIN CHAUD! Only 2 euro, and a lot warmer (and yummier) than gloves. I had to have one, and much to my surprised delight the vendor spoke English and seemed more than happy to practice it on me.
I walked down the street, vin chaud warming my hands, music playing overhead, not even noticing the 2 degree weather. Just taking it all in is such a treat. I wish everyone could see this. I cannot wait til Jess is here to share this all with me.