Christmastime Abroad

So, this is our first Christmas over here, a bit different than the states. For one thing-even though the kids are in a 'state school,' it is Church of England, so there is a Christmas tree in every classroom and a huge one in the hall. Although the anti-Christmas sentiment from the US is gradually seeping over here, it is still acceptable to celebrate, and in public. Company parties are still called Christmas parties, decorations are still referred to as Christmas not holiday. The school play depicted the Nativity and Jillian's pre-school has a show as well (she's an angel).

Another interesting occurance-the kids at school pass out Christmas cards much as they would Valentine's Day cards in the US. Although there is none of the PC method of giving them to every child in the class all at once-its just random-every day the kids come home with a handful of cards. This is good-as you have all either forgot us over here or the post is slow-we have only received one card!

After being raised in cold climates, I must say that Christmas in California was always a bit of a let-down weather wise. Its kind of invigorating to be here in the cold for the Christmas season. More sun-light would be nice, but there is only another week and the days will start getting longer again.

Next week our village shop is having mulled wine and mince pies along with caroling. By the way there is no milk and cookies for Father Christmas here-its mulled wine or whiskey and mince pies.




Last night Jason and I went into London to see The Producers. I know this play is shown all over, but there is something cool about seeing it in the West-End with a sell-out crowd. We ate dinner afterwards at mid-night and looking at the Christmas lights as well. Vania (nanny) was staying the night so we had no need to rush home. When we left London at 1 am-the streets were still packed and there was plenty of buzz going on.