I took a deep inhale of the scent that was a midday English mist and fingered the floral inspired book mark in my hand. A deluge of muted pinks, blues, and purples, it was a gift from an artist’s heart, crafted by hand, like all the other items on offer in a tiny shop some would consider far too narrow and cramped to be successful.  Three people plus the shop clerk nearly filled this humble place.  I was Christmas shopping in the village of Lacock, Wiltshire, England. 

My mind flashed to the mall near my Colorado home where over-crowded bustling, bright lights, and expensive shopping lists reigned.

My gift-buying in the tiny shop was an introduction to the fact that Christmas in England is a calmer, truly heart-warming, and a much less commercialized affair.

Done with our shopping task, my English friends and I walked to the Carpenter Arms pub where we enjoyed a yummy lunch in peaceful surroundings.  The sizable blackboard, where menu offerings were posted, invited all to enjoy free mince pies and a caroling sing-song with the local church choir to be held that evening in the pub.  The warmth of the fireplace added an extra tug to the event, but we had to make our way back to Berkshire and the Harris family home where we would continue preparations for friends dropping round for aperitifs.

Our celebration of Christ’s birth included visits to my friend’s family in London and Hertfordshire, a midnight candle light service on Christmas Eve, lamb roast for Christmas dinner, the pantomime theatre, and trips to decorated manor houses.  But, I will forever remember Christmas shopping in a small English village where peace and joy were community gifts of the season.

Candle for a Corpse: A Berdie Elliott Advent Mystery is the story of a small English village celebrating Advent and Christmas together and it’s available right here at Pelican Books.  Happy Christmas and Cheers.

Marilyn Leach