On Christmas Eve day, we ran some errands in preparation for celebrating Christmas. Most of the shops closed early, so we had to buy what we needed because many would be closed for the next few days. The day after Christmas is Boxer Day and many stores would be closed that day as well. We made a trip to a local small grocery store for a few items and then to a larger grocery store for more items. My inlaws who have been in Germany for about 3 months already have their sources down! Earl, I, and the kids ran the errands and they seemed to enjoy it. Everyone around us was speaking German, but the store itself seemed familiar. At the checkout the cashier gave each of the kids a chocolate Santa Claus which was nice. Unfortunately according to Ryan it was hollow. They certainly have their own particular kinds of foods and a much richer selection of breads and juices. We looked at cereals, and they have many of the same Kelloggs brands, but they have different names for them. For instance "Frosted Flakes" is just called "Frosties". They also have some great German cereals (Mini Zimtos -- much like Cinnamon Toast Crunch), which the kids are enjoying instead. There also was a great bakery just inside the door of the last grocery store where we bought several different kinds of danishs and breakfast rolls. Our conclusion is that they taste great and a bit different than what we are used to, and the flavor isn't as overpowering as similar items in the states. I like saying "in the states". Makes me feel like an old hand at this travel business... Anyway, we have tried several different types of the danishes and I'm sure we'll be back to buy more! Delma made a Schnitzel (breaded chicken) and mashed potatoes dinner for us on Christmas Eve which was very good. We rested up for the most part and then went to a Senior Citizens (type of) home where Delma, accompanied by Ryan and Kayla, played several Christmas songs for them on bells. Afterwards we left for the Christmas Eve service at the Immanuel Baptist Church (an International Baptist Church) where Earl is the interim Pastor. What a beautiful church. It's interesting in that two different congregations came together in order to purchase and build it. So, they share the space. The other congregation is German-speaking, whereas the International congregation is primarily English-speaking as the members come from many different countries, including some from the United States military. They seem to really like Earl & Delma. I think it might be hard for them to leave and for the church to let them leave in March! We were able to meet many members of the church that evening and we will be seeing them again on Sunday. The church service was very nice, and as a bonus Audrey (Laura's sister) sang a solo. She sang beautifully. Once we got back to the house, we continued making preparations for Christmas. Ryan was very aware of the time and kept checking to make sure he wasn't up too late for Santa! Christmas treats were made as we geared up for the celebration the next day.
