Hi and Merry Christmas! Or, Happy Christmas, as we say here in Scotland.
So, what do we do here in Scotland on Christmas Day? That was our question exactly. Today we got the answer.
We had been here only two weeks when we were invited for Christmas dinner by our neighbors, Ray and Anne. Lovely people who live just a few steps from us and were just about the first people we met here.
We started the day going to church in Portessie with Ray, Anne and their granddaughter Jane.
Pastor Chris Jackson 
Front and Altar 
Back and Balcony
Then dinner at 12:30. Upon arrival, we were offered a sherry. I haven’t had sherry for many years. Table was set festively with Christmas Crackers. Everyone grabs a Cracker and pulls and collects the treasures from inside.
Cackers on the Table 
Queen Anne 
King Ray
Inside there is always a paper crown, which you are obligated to wear; a small toy or other object; and some jokes. Here are some jokes:
- What did Mrs. Clause say to Mr. Clause when she looked up into the sky?
- ANS: Looks like rain, Dear.
2. Why are Christmas trees so bad at sewing? ANS: They always drop their needles.
OK. No more.
Menu:
Starter: Scottish Salmon with Cream Cheese and small shrimps in sauce or/ Cubed melon
Main: Roast Turkey, Stuffing. Mixed Veggies (turnip, carrots, sprouts), Roasted Potatoes, Cranberry Sauce
Dessert: Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce and/or Mango Passion Fruit Cheese Cake
Pulling the cracker.
Then some games. This is one Anne provided. Play ring toss with the reindeer antlers. Later, a variation on Charades. And a little more liquid cheer, It was a fun day.
I forgot to mention that the day had to start with Bacon Sandwiches. There seems to be some disagreement about whether Red Sauce or Brown Sauce is best.
Red sauce is basically Ketchup. Brown sauce is similar to A-1 Sauce. I personally, had cereal. No sauce.
It was a wonderful day with friends. I hope your Christmas was a wonderful.
See you next time.