Christmas in Leamington Spa

The Christmas lights in the towns were absolutely stunning. It really helped with the Christmas cheer but as it drew closer to the 25th our first Christmas away from NZ was becoming more of a reality. Family and friends were constantly in our thoughts but little did we know that there was an abundance of Christmas spirit coming our way to help us through.

We had our first Christmas early December with Ritchie and Trace. We were able to have a much needed catch up with these guys before they headed off to Switzerland to work for Oak Hall. Ritchie and Duncan hang out like a couple of 10 year olds... causing mischief. For the Christmas event we started with chips and Nestle reduced cream and maggi soup dip (thanks Mum) For the main we had a classic lamb roast (New Zealand imported.) It was such a blessing having great kiwi friends to share in the festive celebrations.

Our second Christmas was shared with the kiwis from Kordia (formerly known as BCL). We were invited to Ryan and Tania's for the meal of our lives!! After a year living in France these two knew their wine and their food. We had a total of five courses each matched with a complementing beverage. Our Secret Santa didn't go quite to plan but there were plenty of laughs. As Ryan & Tania and John & Lisa jetted off to Egypt and Switzerland we prepared for out third English Christmas....

Well it wasn't the white Christmas we all expected, more grey and drizzly. Our Christmas tree (purchased for Christmas number one) had seen better days but was still standing tall for the important occasion that awaited. It proudly held our kiwi icon decorations that reminded us of home (thanks Mel)

Christmas Eve Rosalie, Derek and Sonia arrived to share in the basement hospitality. We were all in great spirits and Derek took no time in suggesting we crack open a bottle of wine! Great idea.

We were to have our first Christmas turkey to be cooked by ... Becs. We can report that this was done without a hitch. (Marks & Spencer must be acknowledged here. The turkey came stuffed, dressed with bacon and in a ready to cook tray. For those of you who have not heard of Marks & Spencer's it is the Kirkcaldie and Stains of supermarkets. The food is of high quality and the convenience factor is high. You could throw a very classy dinner party with minimal hassle and without your pinnie!)

Any way... back to Christmas. For a good three days we indulged in fab food and merrily shared toast after toast. But wait, there's more...

We were able to celebrate Christmas yet another time thanks to the technology of a webcam.
Bec's mum, dad, sister, both nanas, uncle, aunty, cousins all made their debut appearance. Webcam episode two staring Rob and Keely completed the Chisholm clan and many a laugh was shared. We even did the present opening tradition. And yes a few tears were shed (Becs, Deb and Mel the repeat offenders)

Although we were miles and miles from home we felt very fortunate to have family in the UK to share Christmas with. What a wonderful time!

Our next stop was Scotland for New Years...