Christmas and the joy it brings along

Christmas tree, lights and glitter
Ribbon, bows and wrapping paper
Pot roast, turkey and cranberry jelly
They all add to the merriment and cheer
But those we're supping make the greatest difference
Tis we call family and friends
Once again joined to celebrate the REASON for Christmas and our living
That is– Jesus, my Lord and Saviour

So the celebration started on the eve of Christmas this year. At the strike of midnight, the Christmas tree beckoned our presence with gifts at its feet. This year was a little different as we usually opened present on Christmas morning. Since the entire family had to leave for Klang the next morning for yet another run at Grace Klang, we unraveled it at night.
So with presents beholding, within minutes there their wrappers were strewn on the floor. Exclamations and glitter fills the eyes. It never fails to amuse me what presents can do to even us adults. As I sat in the midst of my family, it's a bittersweet moment as this would be my last Christmas at home. Next year, Terence and I would have to think of someway to be present at two homes for present unwrapping. Maybe the eve at his house and Christmas morning at my place – we'd work something out.

Christmas day was rather relaxing. Aunty Ooi cooked up a simple lunch of garden veggies, roasted potatoes, spaghetti and stuffed chicken. I was glad there was no big hoo-ha this year (somehow I preferred the quietness of just family). We sat down for a movie after lunch and then it was off to my place. Dinner was at Bellaroma at Damansara Perdana. Italian spread of pastas, pot roast and turkey filled the table. Back home, there was another round of present opening and heaps of laughter. It was and always has been a blessed Christmas. I'm grateful indeed. Check out Terence's gift to my sister:)

Christmas on the 26th
It's a task to get all the lasses together, but this time around everyone showed up. Not one missing. Invitations were sent and it was to be a night of candlelight feasting and camaraderie. Unfortunately the sky decided to shower upon us and the party was moved indoors. Nonetheless nothing was to deter us. Su, Yee Jia and Shamini cooked up a storm that filled not just the table but 7 hungry tummies. Snoop into the menu:

Entrée

Garden veggies with fresh tomato sauce

Mains

Grilled lamb with mustard seasoning
Barbequed honey chicken

Desserts

Homemade mango yoghurt Tim Tams – Choc Indulgence
Amarina cheesecake
Chocolate banana cake
Christmas chocolate pudding (melt in our mouth!)
Ice cream (this we couldn't possibly fit in anymore)

Throughout the night there was food on the table, we cleared the place and more food came. Chatter and laughter overflowed. It was indeed a privilege to once again reminiscence old college days and Perth days as we now shared with each other's separate journeys in life. Some are drowned in work but still find time for some sanity while others are blessed to have scholarship to pursue their dreams. We have come a long way and God to thank for that. Thank you all gals making the effort to meet up – friendship is an effort and what we have is the fruit of it.

Who needs Christmas dinner at a restaurant when you have friends that can really cook?