Happy New Year

Well, the new year is upon us, and here in Scotland the old one is leaving with mighty winds and driving rain. What a year it has been. Last year at this time, Erin and I were fairly certain that we would be heading to Scotland for me to start my PhD. I had been unoffically accepted to one of my schools, so everything was looking good. In January I was accepted to both schools, and had a choice to make. In May Erin left Everman ISD. She taught there for four years, and it was her first teaching position. In July we moved from Texas, leaving behind many good friends. After spending some time with family, we finally left for Aberdeen in September. Now four months later, we have settled in well. Erin has found a new job, which brings with it new challenges. My studies are going better than any could have predicted. And now a new year is here.
God has blessed and cared for us throughout this past year, and I can only imagine what this next year will hold. As this new year begins, don't forget to reflect on what God has done in the past year. The grace of God brought each of us through different challenges and joys. I am certain that he will do the same for us all this coming year.

Christmas Traditions

We have noticed several differences here in Christmas traditions. People here say "Happy Christmas" instead of "Merry Christmas." Many of the Christmas songs are the same: however some have slight word differences. "Away in a Manger" is sung to a different tune and has several wording changes. "Silent Night" starts with a completely different verse. The first verse of the American version is not even included. A popular item over here are Christmas Crackers. Let me explain. One day we were at Asda (Walmart) and we saw people buying boxes of Christmas Crackers. They were these little packages wrapped in Christmas paper. I thought they were edible crackers that people give as gifts or something. Then we went to the Christmas party at my work and were given crackers. You pull a tab on each end of the package and they make a loud popping noise. When you open them there is a paper hat and plastic toy inside. They use them at parties or you might be given one when you go out to eat at a restaurant. People really wear the hats! Here is a picture of a cracker and the lovely hat.



On Christmas Day we will be attending a service at our church. Afterwards, we have been invited for Christmas dinner with some American friends from our church who also attend the University. We are very greatful to be included in their Christmas celebration.

Finally, our church

Picking a church can be a difficult issue, especially with many good ones. After visiting 6 churches, and 2 twice, we decided on Hebron Evangelical. It was the third church we visited in Aberdeen. The people are friendly and the pastor is good. The church has a strong student group, most of them are undergrads, and many foreigners. At lunch on Sunday, we sat with 2 Germans, a Chinese lady, and an Iranian lady. We added the church website to our links page if you want to learn more about the church.