Christmas in Oz

Although we of European descent seem determined to force our Southern hemisphere Christmas season into a wintry snowy mould, there are some good things about an Australian Christmas.

Wrapping up the anticipation of Christmas services, family fun and fine food within Summer lends it a further exciting air of holiday.

Following the outdoor evening picnic /primary school Christmas concert, I took the family down to Geelong waterfront for a stroll to see the Christmas lights.

We were a little early to see the (in)famous floating tree, but just in time for photo fun.

My parents are visiting for Christmas, so we encouraged my Dad to indulge his weakness for ice cream, whilst sitting outdoors at 9pm.

Sure the Geelong weather can be variable, but you just have to make the most of it when it is good!
Summer means Christmas with delicious soft fruit and delicate salads. It means having permission to not roast turkey or steam puddings - unless you want to!

Mind you, I have suffered a few 40C Christmases when a wet dark Christmas with the BBC "24 hour film festival" sounded wonderful.

May you have a happy and thoughtful Advent.