Christmas 2012

And so, with the fading chords of another Christmas carol, this very special family day draws to a close. Full stomach, droopy eyes and completely satisfied taste buds remind me of my complete over-indulgence of our truly amazing meal and as the sun fades I feel my heart swell full of love for my family, my skin rejoice at the feel of the fresh cool of the evening light and my belly stretch to cope with the increased intake as I realise that once again my eyes became too big for my tummy.

Yes, another amazing day.

I think back to the early hours of the day. Woken up at the crack of dawn by my own excitement, followed by making coffee in bed for my parents and then my favourite; presents! This may seem a bit shallow, but let me quickly explain something to you all. Last year for Christmas I found my sister the ultimate gift and I knew from the moment I bought it that she was going to adore it. As she opened it and found her very own strawberry milkshake coloured Stellenbosch hoodie, she squealed and came bounding across the room and into my arms.

Her joy at the simple gift made me realize just how well I know her and just how much her reaction meant to me. Seeing that pure emotion made me see just how special it is to be able to buy the people you love gifts that bring them so much happiness.

My reason for loving the present opening ceremony is not only because I love being spoilt rotten but also because I love seeing the reactions to the gifts that I have bought for my special family.

Later, while lying on the beach, soaking up the sun and working on my tan, I thought back to this little family ceremony of ours and couldn’t help but giggle out loud. I was really spoilt this year, I really and truly was and it seems as if everyone enjoyed their presents. But the funny part was, as usual, my Teddy Bear’s (stepdad’s) comments throughout. He has the ability to make completely ludicrous and inappropriate comments whilst simultaneously making me want to shoot him in the face and roll on the floor laughing my head off.

I got beautiful messages from family and friends wishing me a Merry Christmas as well as the usual broadcast messages from people I never even speak to. I got amazing presents. I learnt how to cook a turkey. I got some special moments with my family. And as if that wasn’t enough I got completely awesome food just to top it off. And yet my favourite moment of my entire day is right now.

As I lie here typing on my laptop, listening to music on a sound system I got from my parents, I am joined by my two very favourite people on the planet. My sister lies next to me, cuddled up into a ball with her head resting gently on my shoulder and my sunburnt little brother lies next to her snoring as loudly as his little lungs can manage. Yes, this is my Christmas and I have enjoyed every second of it.

So to all of you, I wish only the best of Christmas wishes. I hope that your day is as special as mine and I hope that those of you spending it with family take a moment to realize how lucky you are to be surrounded by the people you love because it is a privilege that we often take for granted but a privilege nonetheless.