It’s that time of year again. The decorations have gone up around Durham and the shops are full of all things red and snow-themed. The countdown to Christmas has begun! As the festive spirit picks up, we can relish in the re-emergence of carols from their ten-month hibernation and, of course, discuss potential plans. In wondering what this year’s Christmas could bring, I got thinking about the festivities of previous years. It’s difficult to pinpoint a favourite one, but I’d have to say Christmas 2014 is definitely up there.
My parents and I were staying in a little cottage near a small town about 5 hours south of Perth, West Australia. For us Aussies, Christmas means sun and beaches and ice cream. We’d had a relaxing day of sitting under the veranda, chatting and opening presents and were waiting for 5pm, when it would be cool enough to emerge from the shade and hit the beach. Back then I was learning to drive, so we piled into the car and I drove for about 20 mins to reach our favourite spot. It’s a little bay secluded from the breaking waves by a series of granite rocks, which creates a natural pool – Greens’ Pool. The water was crystal clear, the cool afternoon breeze was finally providing relief from the heat of the day (it had been 40°), keeping away the flies. As the sun began to set, everyone else left and we had the beach to ourselves. Just being there as a fam, me having just finished school and my parents finally getting a holiday, made it one of my favourite Christmas memories. So now as we begin to move towards Christmas and all its food and fun – let’s get out there and get thinking what can make our festivities this year all the more special!