It’s wonderful how Christmas seems to make everything a tad jollier! Can you feel the Christmas spirit in the air?
But it’s not just about the Christmas ornaments and lights, and the abundance of festive log cakes and turkey; it’s about the gatherings and catching up with friends and family, and the love, joy and good vibes in the air that is almost palpable.
We speak to four of our friends who are looking forward to Christmas, to learn how they intend to celebrate in our uniquely Singaporean fashion!
It might be cliché, but Christmas is really all about family.
We spend so much of our time invested in our professional obligations that time slips away, leaving me especially introspective as we reach the conclusion of yet another year.
My holidays will seem unexciting to most, but there is no other way I would rather spend them. Watching Christmas specials with my family as we gobble down a heartwarming KFC feast (not sure why, but KFC is reminiscent of the Yuletide season for us) – an indulgence in the simplicity of the precious moments when we put aside our phones for familial banter and chats.
To all who are reading this: Have a wondrous Christmas and a joyful New Year!
– CPL (NS) Woo Kiah Kien, MCSSB, Technician
I’m actually really excited as this is the first Christmas season that I am spending with my beloved partner. Like many of us, I find myself so caught up with work and essentially, the hustle of everyday life that moments of reprieve like this one must be deeply savoured. There will be food, games and gifts shared between my partner, me and of course, my family.
Interestingly, I had the experience of being the Duty Sergeant during the Christmas season years ago. The Cookhouse had prepared a festive menu that was really special, and because many enjoyed an early bookout during the eve of the holidays, there was this indescribable solace that was so comforting to me and my military colleagues. Time seemed to move slower then.
– 1SGT (NS) Shannon Yeo, MCSSB, MT Warrant
Still need Christmas gift ideas? Here is our list for the techie in your life.
The festive holiday has a special meaning to my family, as it is more than just the food and companionship. It is a season of unity and giving.
Both my son and brother, who are currently situated overseas, are coming back home to celebrate Christmas together. I’m filled with joy to reunite with the people whom I love the most, especially given how preoccupied we have been with our never-ending list of responsibilities.
This reunion will be an especially joyful one as we toast to my brother’s engagement to his lovely partner, who will soon join our ranks! He managed to find love at 62 – can you believe it? My family and I are just so happy for him, and we look forward to welcoming them this Christmas holiday!
– COL (NS) Toh Han Li, Chairman, SAFRA Jurong Executive Committee
I love the various gift exchanges that I have with my groups of friends! It’s not just the act of receiving, but rather, the meticulous pursuit of the perfect gift befitting the comradery and friendship that we have shared for so many years. We rarely express appreciation for those who matter, and it is these gift exchanges that convey the gratitude that has been left unspoken.
That said, I am a huge collector of electronic gadgets of all kinds and hopefully, my friends know this when getting my gift (take the hint!). Jokes aside, I am really content knowing that regardless of our schedules, my friends and I will find the time to meet up during this festive holiday to reminisce and celebrate the many memories and moments that we have shared together.
– LCPL (NS) Louis Low, MCSSB, Battalion HQ
It’s not too late to book that Christmas feast with your loved ones – from lavish buffets to leisurely afternoon teas, here are our suggestions!
Main photo: SPH Media Trust
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