Sunday, November 29, 2009

Christmas Shopping in Worcester...
















Worcester, England - the twin city to Worcester, Massachusetts. Having come 3000 miles from my home, and Worcester, Mass, being the closest major city to my Northbridge home, it seemed only appropriate that I make the journey at least once to this twin city before returning home. Several ladies from Fairfield plan an annual Christmas shopping journey to Worcester each year, and I was kindly invited to join them. I am glad I was able to spend some time with these ladies outside of school - it was quite fun.

The city of Worcester, England is a mix of Victorian factory architecture, modern architecture and Tudor style architecture. The city was the home to the final battle in the English Civil war where Oliver Cromwell emerged victorious. Like the sister city in Massachusetts it has a major river running through it, the River Severn, which supported its industry and occasionally floods its banks. On this day, the river was quite high, as there has been about 30 days of straight rain in the area.

This particular shopping weekend also found us visiting during the annual Victorian Christmas Fayre ( the spelling of this word is not in error). There were many street stalls selling cheeses, meats, vegetables, wines, clothing, gloves, jewelry, and, of course, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Ware mongers were dressed in traditional Victorian costume and there were carnival rides, especially a beautiful carousel. There were street performers, including dancers and the Salvation Army band playing Christmas carols. It was a festive atmosphere and the weather was crisp and chilled - perfect to get one in the mood for the holidays.

I had much fun, bought a few bits and bobs for my family and friends at home and enjoyed the day very much. Thank you, ladies, especially Kath, for thinking of inviting me along.

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