English Exchange - the mailing list of English the international language. Hello everyone
A warm welcome to all our new members and a very happy Christmas and peaceful new year to everyone. If you haven't done so already, why not email the English Exchange and introduce yourself? Today I'd like to tell you a little about Christmas in my home country of England. As you probably know Christmas is a Christian holiday, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. However, in England you could easily be forgiven for overlooking its religious origins. Christmas is now big buisness. Everywhere we go we are being tempted and encouraged to spend more and more on Christmas cards and presents, decorations and food and drink. If you are not careful, Christmas can be a very expensive time indeed. Officially December 25th and 26th and January 1st are National holidays. But many companies close down for a long holiday, beginning some time before Christmas and extending until after New Year's Day. Usually we spend Christmas day itself with family. The day begins with opening our presents. Many children try to stay awake all night, hoping to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas (Santa Claus). Our traditional Christmas lunch consists of roast turkey, potatoes and vegetables, followed by Christmas pudding. Although Christmas is usually a very happy time, it can be very lonely time for those with no family as most shops are closed and there is no public transport. Shortly after Christmas comes the new year celebrations. Many people go to parties on new year's eve (December 31st). At midnight we pften sing the traditional Scottish song Auld Lang Syne. Do you celebrate Christmas in your country? If you do, tell us what you'll be doing this year. If not, what is the most important holiday for you? Tell us all about it. English Exchange is your mailing list. Use it to ask any questions you might have or answer questions from other members. Tell us about any useful English learning resources you've found. Find friends and e-pals. Add your contribution to our ongoing debates and start debates of your own. Best wishes Johnny @ English the international language English the international language; Free lessons, Advice and Resources for learners of English worldwide http://www.twinisles.com/english [Sponsored by:] _____________________________________________________________________________ Unlimited Usenet News Groups - $10/month No Download Limits! Signup Now: http://www.news.astraweb.com Join Now: http://www.news.astraweb.com <a href="http://www.news.astraweb.com";>AOL users click here</a>
