Christmas Eve at Casa Waldau-te Brake

Posted by: fracas on December 25 @ 1:51 pm

And so Christmas eve has come to an end. My day started early with laundry and cleaning to prepare for the big day. As an expat in a foreign country, traditions become even more important, and most important of all is Christmas Eve. It’s the evening when a big family meal is prepared followed by Christmas gift exchange. As usual in our household we eat pretty late, and as I was preparing turkey, meatballs and ham together with other delicacies such as smoked salmon, pates, fois gras, and various sauces, musterd fruit and lingon berry, our meal wasn’t ready until just before 9 pm. Unfortunately I wasn’t feeling so well, as a stomach bug had caught hold so I didn’t eat that much. On the other hand that wasn’t such a bad thing either and this morning I hadn’t gained the usual extra kilo which is accustomed after our Christmas celebration.

After dinner we continued with our gift exchanged. This was Sebastian’s first Christmas, and he was particularly amused with the idea of stuffing wrapping paper in the mouth. I got some lovely presents. Bath paraphernalia by Lush from Victoria, a Vogue designer issue by MJ, Cappuccino cup and a shot glass, a scented candle from Reminiscence and a wonderful perfume by Bond No. 9 – Andy Warhol edition. I shall write a separate review on this one as it’s spectacular.

Victoria got a lot of clothes, underwear, earrings, a karaoke machine, perfume, a book and most importantly a skateboard which had been highest on the wishlist. For Reinout we had bought CD’s, RocknRolla by Guy Richie, a classic cardigan and two shirts, a scarf (since I use his!) and underwear.

MJ got the coolest present of all, a leather toilet bag filled with sample products that Reinout has been collecting over the years not using. In times of crisis one has to be resourceful!

As I wasn’t feeling so well, I left the party at midnight, having a shower and then straight to bed. At 4 am I was awoken by Reinout who dropped in having played poker all night. Boys will be boys. I’m now in bed, so relaxed. The next couple of days will be minimal work, maximum relaxation. Bliss!