Christmas 1996

December 1996.  As we got closer to Christmas, Peter and Sylvia extended an invitation to join them for the holidays at their home 18 miles north of Plymouth.  Lower Kelly is the name of their village and Woodview, the name of their house.  It was located on a quiet lane and an easy walk to Cotehele House, a well-known medieval house with Tudor additions.  It's part of the National Trust, so it was interesting to take a path through the woods from Woodview to experience this piece of history.  

We also got to experience firsthand a British Christmas.  Fun!!

Woodview in Lower Kelly, Cornwall.

Peter and Sylvia preparing Christmas Dinner, December 1996

Along with us, Peter and Sylvia, we had Sylvia's three grown children, Mark, Karen, and Scott.

A great English tradition is "poppers." Tissue paper party favors that pop when you pull them apart. Inside is a tissue paper crown that everyone wears. Just for fun!!

We also visited a pub where we enjoyed music from the Calstock Singers. A loosely organized group of friends who loved to come together for music--both singing and playing instruments. Both Sylvia and Peter were a part of this group. What a fun time!!

Some of the Calstock singers. Dressing up also part of the tradition.

On the path to Cotehele House. Carl, Sylvia, Peter, Lori.