Getting ready for Christmas

There are many Christmas traditions around the world - even Santa divides opinions of his origins. Or indeed whether he delivers presents in person on Christmas Eve, like in Finland, or  during the night to be opened on the Christmas Day. And of course there are places where Christmas isn't celebrated at all; whilst the Sharia police is going around establishments across Brunei asking to remove Christmas decorations, here are few photos on how our family has been preparing for Christmas. In our two culture family, traditions have always met nicely but this year has been quite unique. With the help of our extended family - i.e friends here - we've built new traditions that suit us here. Starting from our first ever fake Christmas tree...

Can you see where Sofia decorated?

Home made decorations 

Our Christmas view

Christmas stars - Finnish traditions meet Brunei food shopping

Do you want to build a snowman?

Visiting local snowmen

Advent calendar!

Christmas spirit in local restaurants

Thank you everyone who sent us Christmas cards!

Our Christmas flowers - straight from the garden

It's been a very busy lead up to the Christmas day with traditional Christmas drinks including mince pies and piggies in blankets. Followed swiftly by a Mexican night with amazing locally freshly cooked dishes. And perfectly for me, a ham served on Christmas Eve at a friend's house. Thank you to everyone who opened their doors! Tomorrow we are celebrating with friends at Radisson. We are hoping for great food, good festive cheer and some international atmosphere - let's see if their Christmas trees are still standing! Merry Christmas to you all.