Christmas in Isaan Thailand 2011.

Sorry to regular readers as I have lost motivation to write as much as I used to. Many times I have sat in front of the computer with plans to rant and rave or share something about my ordinary life, but end up doing something else.

I wish all readers who read regularly or accidentally stumble upon Isaan Style a happy 2012 and may it be whatever you hope or wish for.

Christmas here in Isaan was great this year as little Nong Ja is so much more aware of everything now. The build up interested her and on Christmas eve we left out some biscuits and a drink for Santa and the reindeers.

Christmas morning I was up early as I put some presents under the tree from Santa and then sat down to get a little work out of the way on the computer. Ja, we usually always have to stir her from her sleep started to toss and turn in bed.

She opened her eyes and then tried to get Noot’s attention but she was cocooned in the duvet. I heard Ja mention Santa and when I asked if she wanted to see if Santa had been, she shot across the bed and jumped into my arms.

Ja was still half asleep as at first she refused to believe Santa had been even though the biscuits had been eaten and there were presents under the tree. After a couple of minutes she warmed up and wanted to open the presents but was told Noot had to get up.

So back into the room and Noot dragged out into the lounge room. Ja started with her presents.

Ja only got some small presents from Santa as she has so many. Toys are cheap here and we probably buy too many but they are given away every now and then when Noot does a clean up. But to a 3yo any present I am sure is great.

Ja had a lot of fun opening the presents and got very excited at times. It was funny seeing her get worked up.

My parents who are bloody champions, Nancy and John sent us all presents and Ja got this music box that had rings and also bangles or bracelets inside as well. It was met with confusion at first and Ja asked many questions about the girl, the music and why she was turning around.

A ten pin bowling set as Ja loves bowling. I have taken her a couple of times to Sunee Mall as they have bowling lanes there. But there are only two bumper lanes and no ramps for little ones to help launch the balls. The other problem is the music being too bloody loud. I had to ask and even get to the point of making sure they knew I was pissed off after a few times that the fool who was being the DJ could turn the music to half of what it was and it would still be more than enough.

Before long bowling was being played.

Noot went to open her present but Ja insisted on helping. She tore into the paper with enthusiasm. Noot had received a lovely makeup bag, brushes and other things. I had told mum to send soap and perfume as Noot stinks loves the products from the Body Shop. (Just kidding mum and don’t tell Noot)

Noot was wrapped in a light blanket as it was as an Aussie would say, “cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey.” People laugh when they here cold and Thailand but winter can get very cold for us. We have a duvet and the light blanket on the bed and sleep in long PJ’s and socks on.

Ja and her music box and jewellery.

I had to explain to mum that when she thinks of presents for Benjawan that whatever she buys for Ja will suit Ben. Ben was trying to bargain and agreement with Ja for the music box but Ja was having nothing to do with it.

So that was Christmas Day in Isaan Thailand. Bloody fantastic.

Brunty