Heiligabend Bescherung

To which one feels the answer should be 'Gesundheit!". In fact this German phrase simply means "Christmas Eve Gifts" It is the tradition of opening your Christmas Gifts on the Eve of the day itself. The Queen [who is, after all from German stock] follows this tradition with her family.

Her Majesty arrived in Norfolk on Thursday night. She took the train to Kings Lynn and then travelled the 30 minute car journey out to her country estate. I thoroughly approve of the fact that she always takes a regular commuter train - the Royals have one coach reserved for their entourage, the rest of the train is full of ordinary passengers. 
Do you think HM has a Seniors Railcard? She looks like any great-granny off to spend Christmas with the family, doesn't she? Tomorrow morning she will attend St Mary's Church as is her regular custom. Her Norfolk holiday will extend to early February.
This granny will exchange gifts with her husband tonight - after our Christmas Eve Communion Service. [This year it#'s being held early evening, and will be a quiet, reflective service- particularly for those who are finding Christmas this year difficult for some reason]
Then Christmas Morning Service in our church here in Dorset followed by the long journey to Norfolk [by car] In the late afternoon, we will share a meal with Liz, Jon and Rosie - and exchange family gifts.  We're really looking forward to our week's holiday at Cornerstones. 
I do hope you will be able to be with those you love at some point during this Christmas season. When will you exchange your gifts?