It's Christmas Time

Well, Christmas sure is a big thing here. KLCC Suria may have the biggest Christmas tree I'd ever seen but there are lots more Christmas-related ornaments, decorations and activities here in Melbourne than KL.

We were here during Christmas last year. But since we were busy starting our new lives here, we didn't explore the shopping malls all that much. This year, however, we've gone around and seen a lot more. It started way back in October when the first Christmas ornaments made their appearances. I first saw those in Myer.

They are not only Christmas trees, reindeer, stocking, angels, etc. They actually come in so many interesting forms. Some of them depict mini villages, playgrounds, hot air balloons and fun fair. And Santa is not always on his sleigh. He can be on a motorbike, climbing a ladder or fixing some lights. Quaint and quite a sight to behold.

And now, with Christmas just a week ago, you can see even more Christmassy stuff. You can even write a letter to Santa Claus and post it and receive a reply from the jolly old man himself. Of course, at scheduled times, you get to sit on Santa's lap and tell him what you wish for Christmas.

Naturally, you can also find Christmas cards, gift wraps, gift bags, ribbons, gift tags, gift boxes in virtually every shop and supermarket. And gift ideas - you can find them everywhere. Shopping malls everywhere are having sales too, enticing everyone to spend more.

Yes, Christmas is commercialised but the good thing is, the folks here haven't completely lost sight of the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas plays and carols are conducted at parks, schools, community halls, etc. And kids get to enjoy lots of free train rides and free passes to here and there.

Well, we may not have white Christmases here, but the Christmas here sure beats the Christmas in KL.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!