Christmas

Christmas doesn't register much in Malaysia. Ramadan and Chinese New Year get the big press coverage, commercials and decorations. But since Malaysia is not a country to dismiss a chance for a work holiday, there was still some reason to celebrate.

Since the expat community undertakes a serious effort to create Christmas cheer, we found ourselves with a busy social calendar offering many opportunities for what has become a hallmark of our holidays -- lots of food and drink! With santa hats in hand (thanks Katie!), but without the irritatingly endless cycle of carols on the radio and in the shops, we managed a respectable attempt at Christmas in the tropics.

There was a touch of caroling from the IWA Penang Choir, dressed in their finest poinsettia-patterned vests. It was high quality, old fashioned, and not too long. Followed by a lovely buffet brunch at the E&O Hotel.

There was fake-tree decorating at our friend's house. This about covered our foray into Christmas decorations this year. Lots of ornaments to hang as we sipped a red (or two) and listened the modern holiday crooning of Michael Buble.

Our pot luck Christmas Eve dinner for 10 was fabulous -- ham with trimmings and apple pie has never tasted better! Poppers and crowns too! Oh course washed down with a few bottles of red, white and champers.

Our friend's little pug dogs were perhaps the most enthusiastic for Christmas. They could tolerate the little santa hats because of the amount of food dropped on the floor was so absorbing.

Christmas breakfast was its usual treat, croissants and jam, tea and biscuits. This time with leftover ham and fried potatoes! Serious Skype sessions with friends and family followed, which nicely completed our 2011 Christmas. We'll be home for the holidays next year, but hope for a time filled with as much fun, friends, family, and food.