CHRISTMAS 2010 SO FAR...........!

27TH. DECEMBER 2010 CHRISTMAS 2010 SO FAR......!
Our Christmas began with an 9.00a.m. concert at Preca College on the 23rd. The students were great and that included our friend, Adelajda. She took part in a difficult mime and really gave its message very clearly. The dramatic items were excellent and it was a treat to hear all the carols in English!

On Christmas Eve, we joined our Maltese friends for a procession through the streets with the Divine Infant. People came and stood to enjoy the carols we sang en route. This year we were able to join in a little with the Shqip! The procession ended here and all had refreshments - lots of requests for the mulled wine recipe - Sr. Anna, take a bow!

We have been really blessed as we had a priest for 11.00p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve - and this was followed by hot chocolate and biscuits in the foyer! On reaching home, we indulged in hot Mince Pies and Brandy Butter - part of a hamper from my sister, Bernie, and family. We then took some time to exchange gifts. We also had an 11.00a.m. Mass on Christmas Day. What a surprise when friends called in the afternoon and the first few told us we had been on Television. A man, making a video the night before, works with National TV, and a few snippets of his work were shown.

We were "open for visitors" from 3.30p.m., a Korce tradition. We were surprised the people called so promptly. Again, we served mulled wine and Lebanese traditional cake for Christmas. Every guest was gifted with a bag of German "Plezen" as they left. My spelling may not be perfect but the variety of homemade German biscuits was guaranteed to delight! Later in the evening when the young adults got out the organ and the Albanian and English carols got under way, we replaced the Christmas cake with lots of savoury favourites! We were delighted Mirjam arrived back from the Mass for the young people in Pogradec before we finished.

We were very happy to receive so many greetings over the past few days. Phone calls, emails, Facebook messages, and of course letters and cards. Its a great time of year and we still have the New Year! Yesterday, we went with the women from the Church for a meal. There were 14 of us and the three Maltese catechists who really have kept the church alive here in Korce.

With thanks and prayers for each one who has been in touch. Have a good week to complete 2010!