Hi everyone!
I just wondered how everyone was going to celebrate Christmas (if at all).

We are currently in Taiwan and Christmas Day is a normal work day.

The shops have some decorations up and there are Christmas songs on the English speaking radio stations.

I have bought a big turkey (at a ridiculously high price) from a western supermarket and have most things I need to make my usual Christmas dinner. The only thing I cannot find anywhere is a box of Xmas crackers!! Never mind!

It won't be particularly cold here- probably around 18 C or so, but it is colder than Singapore - which is where we have spent the last 2 Christmases.

We will go to church as usual on Christmas Eve for midnight Mass.

I put my tree up a couple of days ago, and outside of our apartment door are a couple of snowmen and a reindeer. I don't know what my Chinese neighbours make of it at all! :)

I know we aren't a busy forum, but I would love to hear your experiences of Christmases far away from home, past or present.

Wishing you all the blessings of the Christmas season,

Rachel xx

We had a terrific Christmas.
Went to church for a wonderful carol service, kids' Christmas nativity and then Midnight Mass.

Got completely bloated with turkey and bits, pulled some crackers and then settled down in front of the TV to watch some old British TV comedy (The Two Ronnies, Morecambe and Wise etc) on DVD.
Had some people round on Boxing Day for more food and drink.
Had a small earthquake which put the phones out but no damage.

New Years Eve we went to the park and filmed the magnificent fireworks display at Taipei 101 - jaw-dropping stuff!

Today is a slightly sadder day as all the decorations and tree have to be packed away for next Christmas.

Ah well, only about 6 weeks to Chinese New Year! Whoopee, another excuse for a party!!