Christmas in the 'Jing!

It's Christmas time here in Beijing, Northern Hemisphere style, complete with a smattering of fresh snow, sparkly Christmas tree goodness in every colour and fancy twinkly light imaginable and some very dapper looking Santas popping up in malls and shop windows.

My kids are beyond excited, making Santa "wish-lists" and learning about giving at this special time of the year.  I asked my four year old, Maggie, last night what she wanted for Christmas and she replied, "Just a fairy Mum who grants wishes all the time!" Mmmmm, could be a tricky one, but I'll work on it!

My tai-tai, ex-pat friends are busily arranging their apartments to look as festive and special as possible for their children, to bring the magic of their traditions into their Beijing homes....whether they are from Australia, America, Europe or farther afield. Their trees are stunning and I even spotted a teddy bear dressed tree at my local shopping mall that made the kids squeal with glee! Random but fun!

Here are some of my favourite photos lately of Christmas time fever in Beijing and some funky, eye-catching Christmas trees. I wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas wherever you are in the world.

Mummy and Charlie at the girls' school

Getting in the Christmas spirit

International school Christmas Concert - my daughter Lily singing up a storm - snowflakes and sunglasses
 representing the best of both hemispheres!

Santa on the drums

Rock on Santa!

Charlie all bundled up.."what's this snow stuff Mom?"

-8 degrees C today and dropping!

My 2 yr old son Charlie's interpretation of Santa

Love this!

Teddy Bear tree!