Day 1: International Pie Day (12 Days of Beauty)

This morning, Evan and I helped to make approximately 500 mincemeat pies. I've never even eaten a mincemeat pie before. Which is not even meat, by the way, it's a mix of dried fruit and nuts. But my mom did teach us how to make pie. Thanks mom!

That's me in the blue apron.

That was one of the really cool things; you didn't have to be a British Pro Baker to be a part of today's pie extravaganza, as we were led by a wonderful lady whose ministry is teaching baking to former sex workers to give them a chance at a new life. She is really great at this kind of thing. Very patient, giving clear instructions and praising our efforts despite our imperfections.

There were well over a dozen folks working in that hot little church kitchen and I counted at least 8 different countries of origin. It was wonderful to meet and work (and sweat) with so many interesting people. It was beautiful. We were the UN of baking! (Actually, one of the ladies works with the World Food Federation that is a part of the United Nations. No joke.)

Almost done for the day!

Oh, perhaps you are wondering why we were making 500 mincemeat pies! They are a Christmas tradition in the UK and our church is having a Christmas Carol service tomorrow night that includes the pies as well as another long-standing British Christmas tradition, mulled wine. 

Tune in again tomorrow to read more about the carol service! Probably.

~ Bonnie