There’s been quite a few Christmas tags going around in the community, and I was considering joining in just for the fun of it. Then, last week, the lovely Maggie from Dreaming of Guatemala nominated me for one! So, let’s get into this Ultimate Christmas Q + A!
What is your favorite Christmas film?
To be honest, probably Die Hard. It’s a silly, over-the-top action film, with hilarious quotes, and Alan Rickman. It only classifies as a Christmas movie since it takes place around Christmas. But I definitely count it.
Have you ever had a white Christmas?
No, and considering all of my Christmases so far have been summer, it would have been a literal miracle.
Where do you usually spend Christmas?
With my family in Wellington. Although growing up, every two years we used to go down to Blenheim to see my grandparents and spend the holidays with them.
What are your favorite Christmas songs?
I’ve got a whole post coming on this later this week. My favourite at the moment is “Text Me Merry Christmas”, cause of the whole tongue-in-cheek humour of it all.
When does your family put up your Christmas tree?
I don’t really remember. Normally a week or so into December I think. I do remember it being up during my birthday.
Do you open presents on Christmas Eve?
Nope.
What holiday traditions are you looking forward to most this year?
We don’t really have any honestly.
Who decorates the Christmas tree?
Growing up, it was a mixture of mum and me. Now, in my house, it’s just me. Rory isn’t really interested in it.
Is your Christmas tree fake or real?
Fake. A real tree sounds like too much hassle. Also, I don’t think you can get real Christmas trees down in New Zealand since it’s the middle of summer.
Do you like giving gifts or receiving gifts?
Both. I like thinking of a present they may like and buying it. But I also love receiving presents and getting lots of goodies.
What is your favorite holiday treat/meal?
Pavlova. It’s a classic Kiwi dessert.
What is the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received?
There’s been lots that I’ve loved, but one still sticks in my head. I was 10 or 11 at the time, I was just getting into songs I heard on the radio, and in the habit of recording songs off the radio and making a mix tape. Of which I would listen to on a stereo, with giant headphones. Well one year, both my sister and I received a walkman for Christmas. It made me so happy! I could now listen to my mix tapes on the go!! Since then, I’ve always had earphones in my ears, playing my music.
What would be your dream place to visit for the holiday season?
I think it would be fun to experience a white christmas once in my life. So I would visit somewhere in Europe, with lots of mountains and castles. I’d love to see it covered in snow, it would be so magical.
Are you a pro present wrapper?
Sure. I’m pretty good at it, but what I do love more is trying to wrap really crazy looking things. Boxes are easy enough, but what about a giant air bazooka gun. I got that for my brother one year, I wrapped cardboard around it, then wrapped that in like 3 layers of wrapping paper. I found it hilarious at least.
What’s your most memorable holiday moment?
I can’t think of one for Christmas at the moment, so I’ll go with a New Years one.
I spent New Years day of 2014 in Cusco, Peru. It was the first and only New Years I’d spent so far from home. It was incredible, and definitely memorable.
Do you make New Years’ resolutions?
Sometimes. But I already go into them doubting myself.
What makes the holidays special for you?
The lovely weather, lack of work, and just being with loved ones. It’s all fun.
Are you a late Christmas shopper?
Nope. I finished shopping for Christmas gifts a few weeks back now!
Do you like having your Christmas gifts kept as a surprise?
Yes, I like the surprise. Although, recently in my family, everyone asks what the other wants, and we give a little list. It’s just something we’ve started to do, which I actually really like as it’s made gift buying so much easier.
Have you ever peeked to see what your present was?
When I was younger I do remember holding up gifts to the light, trying to see through t wrapper. Or shaking it to try hear something. I don’t now, though.
Does your family have a special holiday recipe that you make every year?
Kind of. I talked about Pavlova before. That tends to show up every year. Like I said, it’s a classic.
Have you ever gone Christmas-caroling?
No.
What tops your Christmas tree?
At the moment, nothing. I should probably put something on it.
When do you start getting excited for Christmas?
Generally, as the end of the year arrives. Around the end of October since I don’t really celebrate Halloween. I get excited for it especially as December arrives, but that gets mixed up with my excitement for my birthday as well.
What makes Christmas special for you?
At this point, it’s mixed with the feelings of nostalgia. Each year when we celebrate Christmas, it’s another time for our family to get together, eat lots of food, share presents and hang out. It’s an extra special holiday.
Why do you celebrate Christmas?
I kind of answered it in the previous question, but I also just get into the marketing and creative side of it. It’s so much fun looking at the houses that get super into decorating. Even when Christmas shopping gets crazy, it’s still fun. I love seeing how excited everyone gets, especially the kids. I think it’s a lot bigger for them, and their excitement just fuels my own.
If anyone else feels like doing this tag, feel free to!
Before I go, Life of Angela has reached another 100 followers, bringing us up to 2100! Thank you to everyone who comes by, this really is an amazing community. Especially as the year comes to and end, I get even more reflective. I would never have thought my blog would get this many followers when I started in March. I remember dreaming it would get to 1000 one day, and now we’ve doubled that in under a year! Thank you again, and happy holidays!!
Angela.
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