Christmas in Blacksburg

Christmas week has been pretty chilled out. On Christmas Eve, I watched movies and relaxed. In the evening I went to the carol service at Cissi's church. I am not religious but it was really pretty and I do like christmas carols. The service was quite high tech with videos playing and it was nice to get out. The church was also warm which was a great bonus. I am so used to being in English churches which are usually so cold. And as it was below 0 C outside, it was a very good thing.

On Christmas day I woke up really early so I could Skype home and open my presents with my parents over Skype. They had been very restrained and keep their presents until I called at about noon their time which was 7am for me. I had some really nice presents. Lots of clothes! Thank you to every one who sent cards and gifts. I really appreciate it. It made the day a lot more cheerful knowing people were thinking about me.  :-)

My lovely presents! Thank you to everyone!

For lunch I went with a friend to the Inn at VT for Christmas brunch. I have been there for evening meals and they were lovely. Unfortunately it was a normal brunch with breakfast things. There was a carving station with some very nice beef but not really the normal foods I associate Christmas dinner with! But it was still nice and meant I didn't have to cook for myself. And the real reason I was there was the chocolate fountain!

Chocolate fountain

Plate 1!

 I spent the afternoon on my own, skyping family and friends, drinking wine, and watching movies. It was a pretty boring Christmas and didn't really feel like Christmas Day. Frankly it sucked. But I am going to have a mini Christmas when I go home in February (flights are booked!) so it's not so bad. I really get two Christmases this way! :-)

Boxing day, I started my New Years resolutions. A bit early, I know but why not? So it started with a trip to the gym and a run (despite the mild hangover). Then a pamper session, followed by really boring paperwork (the end of the year is always full of renewals) and work. But I am going to buy my camera soon! I got the money from the insurance company which will cover most of it. I am going to get the same one that was stolen but I am still really excited. :-)

And today the rest of my chocolate arrived! So tonight, along with the lobster tails and Pouilly Fume I have treated myself to, is going to be a very good night.

More English chocolate! Yum!

I hope everyone reading this had a brilliant Christmas, relaxing and fun. And has a fantastic New Year and 2014. It's going to be a good year. For me full of traveling, papers, friends, and adventure. I hope your is too! xxx