An Aussie Christmas

Christmas is only one week away. So, I figured a post on the season was kind of obligatory.  I live in Australia and I’ll be spending Christmas with The Bloke, the Wild Boys, the Crazy Hound and the random drop-ins. Here’s how it’s done at my place…

The Weather:

 It’s summer, which means the temperature on the big day is anywhere between 20C and 40C. The sun could be shining or it could be pouring rain. Aussie weather is nothing if not fickle. So you have to be prepared for anything.

The Venue:

Our celebrations are usually held outdoors. If it’s really hot, we might take a dip in the pool. The order of the day is chilling and being lazy. Except for the preparer of food, which would be me. Okay, Wild Boy II likes to cook (Yay!) so I’ll be sharing preparation duties with him.

The Menu :

Some Aussies still opt for the traditional turkey, plum pudding etc., but many (my family included) prefer a barbie—the grill not the doll.  Seafood, steaks and salads are the order of the day. Yum!

The Grog:

Well, it wouldn’t be an Aussie Christmas without too much grog. Sadly, I’m usually the most sober. I’m sensitive to alcohol and a glass or two of wine is more than enough for me. Just as well, because settling disputes between the Wild Boys is a fulltime job.

The Presents:

I always get exactly what I want, mainly because I buy gifts for myself (using The Bloke’s money of course! Buying your own presents is fine, paying for them isn’t. J) The Bloke and the Wild Boys are easy to buy for since they tell me what they want. Ignoring their wishes is fraught with peril.

The Warm and Fuzzies:

Okay, the day can be a bit challenging, what with all the preparing food while holding a wine glass, and keeping the Wild Boys in their corners, but seriously, folks, I’m glad for one day a year to celebrate with my family. The boys might be wild and The Bloke might be—well, a bloke—but I love ‘em with all my heart and soul.

The Sentiment:

Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, the traditional wishes of joy, peace and goodwill are things to be treasured. At Christmas, I’ll try to be a little more patient, a little more loving, a little nicer… I might not be able to change the world, but I can change my little corner. 

Happy Holidays to you all. Be kind to each other and may your god go with you.

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