So your husband and father is away for Christmas? A disappointment yes but hopefully withs some careful planning you have like me and many others in your situation have had your faux Christmas and it was sensational or if haven’t had it yet it will be sensational. And who is to say that December 25th is the real Christmas day? The Russian Orthodox Church celebrate on the 7th January, the French spread it over the 25th December – 26th, the Belgium’s are completely confused and celebrate on the 6th of December, 31st of December and January 1st. So when you celebrate Christmas is the real Christmas day, its your day, your family day and ‘the traditional day’ as dictated my unknown rules is just something to aim for to guide you by.
However the real deal the 25th of December what to do? Without being a bit brusque may I perhaps reminded you that those who work FIFO and whose rosters happen to fall Christmas day are not the only ones missing out on what tradition deems as Christmas Day. Deployed defence personnel, police, emergency services and doctors all work Christmas day too, as well as so many others trying to put food on the table in less life threatening situations.
And let me take this opportunity thank you Australia’s defence personnel currently serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor, Solomon Islands, Egypt, Middle East, South Sudan and those on Border Protection for your service its greatly appreciated. Thank you to you and your families. Thank you also to our Police men and women and all those in Emergency services thank you.
So yes you have had your Christmas day as deemed by you but what do you do about the real day and yes its a little tricky especially with kids but how you and the kids choose to spend it is up to you. It can either be alone in front of the telly but where is the fun in that, with a bottle (a little sad don’t you agree) or why not try these ideas on how and where and how to spend Christmas day across the land..
Perth.
A seriously magnificent city, with wonderful beaches and who doesn’t love Kings Park? Why not head to the beach or the zoo. Or if you need a little company head to the Christmas Lunch in the Park held a Wellington Square Park and join the spirit of Christmas with others who may be a little lost of Christmas. Who knows you may make a new friend and that’s never a bad thing.
Christmas Lunch in the Park 2012 A Community Christmas
This year marks the 37th annual Christmas Lunch in the Park – Perth’s biggest Christmas Day charity event. On 25 December, Mission Australia will host lunch for over 2,000 people in need and volunteers at Wellington Square Park. The fun-filled day will feature entertainment for all ages and a wonderful community atmosphere. Each of our guests will enjoy a delicious Christmas lunch and receive a gift from Santa. If you are from the Perth area and access local community services, please join us on Christmas Day. There’s no need to RSVP – just turn up and enjoy the good food and great company. If you don’t access community services but would like to help make Christmas Lunch in the Park a special occasion for people doing it tough, you can donate gifts, volunteer your time or donate money to help cover the cost of the event. Volunteer Mission Australia has received a fabulous response to our plea for volunteers for Christmas Lunch in the Park 2012. Thank you to everyone who put their hand up to help out! All volunteering places have been filled. However, if you would like to put your name down for our 2013 lunch, please contact us: P: (08) 9225 0400 E: westernaustralia@missionaustralia.com.au Remember, everyone is more than welcome to join us on Christmas Day from noon for lunch, gifts and entertainment.
Sydney Why not visit Taronga zoo or do a bridge climb both are open? Go to the beach or contact the Ronald Mc Donald House they are always looking for volunteers as cancer doesn’t stop for Christmas.
Melbourne All three zoo’s are open or take a wonder into the city to visit the ice carvings or attend the botanical gardens for a lovely concert by well known harpist Micheal Johnson. More details here.
Adelaide, Darwin, Hobart and Brisbane I’m sorry but as much as I could try all I could find was what restaurants where open however may I suggest a just make a picnic and just get out of the house and enjoy the sunshine or volunteer. I cant recommend something more humbling to volunteer, to make someone’s day by giving them a nice lunch something most of us take as a given. I have done this many a time and its often been the nicest way to spend the morning.
So my friends what ever you do embrace the day. Its another day of being here, alive and well. Rejoice in being able to spread the spirit of humility. Reflect on lessons learnt, mistakes made and achievements earned.
Christmas is when and what you make it but what ever you do and when ever you have it I hope what ever you do its a safe and happy one.
All my love and merry Christmas,
xxDeb and family.
