tHis ChriStmAs...

for the very first time in my life, i went to Christmas Eve mass without the family.

for the very first time, there's none of that annual Christmas Eve 'routine' that we go through back home --- cooking during the day, a looooooong dinner and lots of pictures, cleaning up the kitchen, getting freshen up, dolled up in pretty dresses, getting our makeup and hair done, gathering round the Christmas Tree having the obligatory family photos taken, then exchanging/opening/showing off our pressies, more pictures, before rushing off for the Midnight Mass...

for the very first time, i had dinner on Christmas Eve with friends, and at a teeny Thai restaurant, instead of staying in at home the whole day, cooking up a storm... my fav. lemon and herbs roast chicken, smoked salmon salad, baked ham, roasted veggies, pastas, soups, desserts, wine... :( Wendy, Heidi and i had a couple of Stir-fries and Satay Chicken (Thai style) at the Thai restaurant 5mins away from Church.

for the very first time, i made Tiramisu for myself.

for the very first time, i came home on Christmas Eve to an empty apartment; Silent Night indeed...... o_O

i miss you all at home. Merry Christmas.