Christmas Favorites

Classes have wrapped up for the semester and I’m very happy for the break!  It’s been such a crazy couple of months of learning, growth, and rediscovery. 

From founding a women’s leadership society in the War Studies Department to serving wine to royalty, my time here in London has certainly been memorable!

But now, it’s Christmastime!  London is such a beautiful place to be this time of year. The temperature has stayed right around freezing, allowing for icy fog, which creates breathtaking sunrises.  The streets are lit with twinkling lights, and churches everywhere are holding advent services.  I think that may be my favorite part of Christmastime in London – it seems that on any given night there’s an opportunity to gather together, sing carols, hear the gospel, and share some mulled wine!  I’ve personally been to four different services.  The English really know how to utilize a choir and organ!

People wish you a “Happy Christmas!” left and right.  There’s no shame in it and I find that a beautiful thing.  That isn’t to say that they don’t embrace other holidays as well.  Just the other night, all of Trafalgar Square was lit up for Chanukah.  Rather than being afraid of offending someone, Londoners seem to appreciate all the holidays, while still acknowledging each individually.  

Now it’s time for some of my Christmas favorites!

Favorite Movie: White Christmas

            Even though newer movies like Elf are genius, there is no Christmas movie that has ever captured my heart quite like White Christmas.  And I really wish I owned it right about now, so that I could actually watch it this year!  Here’s my favorite scene:

Favorite Treat: Grandma Winne’s Christmas Cookies

            I don’t know how this recipe is so perfect, but it is!  Anyone who’s tried these delicious treats knows what I’m talking about!  I’m going to try and recreate them here, but I’m pretty sure they won’t be as good without Mom’s touch.

Favorite Carol: In the Bleak Midwinter

            This understated, and underplayed, carol captures the peace brought to earth by the birth of Christ.  It is a beautiful piece of music, one that touches you deep inside. Here is the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge singing it:

"For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given;

and the government shall be upon his shoulder,

and his name shall be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Isaiah 9:6