Christmas in Glasgow

It's only after being in Glasgow that I truly understand what they say, "the howling of the winds".  Am sipping hot milo and enjoying the warmth of my room on a cold night. Every night, I feel thankful for comfortable shelter from the gusty winds. This year's Christmas has been extraordinary. It's a shame that there's no snow yet. Nevertheless, Christmas (already) feels more christmassy just with the cold weather!

The first Christmas celebration was in early December, when we gathered at Amy's for a (semi) potluck dinner.

:)

The second Christmas dinner that we attended was a (massive) house party with over 90 guests. The very hospitable host family even hired waitresses for the event to ensure that everything was well-attended to :) 

Then it was Glasgow on Ice! An outdoor skating rink was created specially for the festive season - Loved everything about it :) The friends, the atmosphere made the experience a perfect one. Not to mention that I unintentionally caused another skater to trip and fall in a most dramatic way :p

The Christmas market was great too, it was a shame that we got there a tad too late and the stalls were closing.

We also had dinner with our dear physio friends, who are now enjoying their winter break in Germany, Sweden and Finland :) Speaking of which, the hostel has been awfully quiet cos most students have went home for Christmas. It feels weirdly lonesome to come home to an empty house. 

Anne and her parents were so kind to extend an invite for us to join them for the actual Christmas Day dinner. They were so warm and so welcoming, and even prepared Christmas gifts for us. I really like how Christmas is being celebrated here. Beyond all the commerciality, Christmas should be nothing more than a cosy family affair. 

love their place ;)

the loveliest host family

with my favourite girls <3

The food was delicious! It was huge feast and
we couldn't manage more than half of what Anne's mum prepared.

Drove past this over-blinked house with plentiful Santa decor. I was nothing but full of amusement when I first saw this house. What a way to show their love for Santa (oh goodness, haha).

And of course, not forgetting the day after Christmas - who would forget Boxing day! Presenting all the loots after an exhausting 6 hours of shopping. It was mentally and physically draining, and I sunk into the bed as soon as I got home. Nevertheless, I am more than pleased that I managed to get something for everyone -  For my papa, brother, Han Wen, and his niece :)