A taste of Christmas

Day 193 -Matamata, New Zealand

Since I’m spending my last week in New Zealand with a family, I’m fortunate to be able to participate in Christmas preparation.

Sunday started with a carol service at the local church. I knew only one of the hymns, but with a stuffed nose and a strong French accent, I didn’t sing too loudly. But it was nice to have that bit of culture.

After that I was invited to the big early family Christmas lunch. It was a beautiful day, so we had lunch on the lawn and met some more member of the family. As a nice coincidence, someone had seen me in Wellington a few days before and remembered me!

The fruit punch was served with a frozen wreath of fruit juice, fruits and herbs (see above). I love the idea.

People brought salads as side dishes, with some strange recipes. Peas and mint I knew of, but beet, strawberry and red onion I didn’t! (Worked very well together though.)

We ended up walking around the park on our way back to try and burn a few of the calories ingested during the meal. Such a lovely day!

Day 194 -Matamata, New Zealand

We decorated the Christmas tree and part of the house! Christmas is coming! We put a CD of Christmas songs on, so I’m learning a few of the classics.

I wrapped some gifts for a children’s class.

We had a walk through in a local school who did live scenes of the Nativity. The star costume was a success. How do you get sheep? Well, you could ask a local farmer, or put a few of the younger children in cute animal onesies.

Day 195 -Matamata, New Zealand

Mince pies! (More pictures here.)

Mince pie

Today I learned to make mince pies. The main part, the mince meat (a mix of dried fruits and probably brandy), escape me still as we had a ready-made mix, but the pastry was made from scratch. They are yummy.

I cut and pasted some Christmas cards for the class I wrapped gifts for.

We had a lovely diner with friends of my hosts, who have a beautiful garden and a pizza machine I envy. (They added turmeric, Italian herbs and garlic to the dough… I will have to remember to try it!)