A few weeks ago I was asked a question by Tim Abney: What are some of the differences in customs and sights during the Christmas season here in England? So I have a small list of differences that I observed here in Mansfield:
1) Far fewer homes are decorated on the exterior
2) They will often have both Ham and Turkey on Christmas
3) Chestnuts are actually eaten and sold in stores
4) Mulled wine, this is our equivelent to Hot apple cider, where we use apples they use grapes
5) NO EGGNOG
6) Adults past a certain age no longer have stockings
7) Christmas Pudding see link http://www.deliaonline.com/recipes/cuisine/european/english/traditional-christmas-pudding.html
Christmas "baskets" are called "hampers"
9) Mince pies: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mince_pie
10) Boxing Day (day after christmas)
11) Christmas Crackers a small paper package that when you pull on both ends "cracks" and has small gifts inside
This is a list of just a few that I can think of/noticed.
PLEASE BRITISH FRIENDS IF I'VE LEFT ANY OUT PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ADD!
MANY BLESSINGS THE SPAMPS!
With Christmas only a couple days away, it's a wonderful time for us to reflect on the gifts the Lord has given us. One prevalent gift being our opportunity to serve the Lord here in England. We can't believe that we have reached December already: our 6-month mark. These past months have been full of challenges, frustrations, and warfare, but also many, many blessings. We are looking forward to celebrating Christmas this year with our church here, and we wanted to take a moment to wish you all a Merry Christmas as well! We cannot being to thank you enough for all of your support and your prayers. We truly cannot be sustained any other way than through the Lord's strength. So whether this season brings you much joy or reminds you of much sadness, we pray that the Lord will meet you and remind you of His great love for you as we focus on the reason for this season, the birth of Jesus, the greatest gift of all. Merry Christmas!
