Disco Babies

Having been brought up in a non-religious household (Mum is a non practicing Christian and Dad is a typical Chinese person who adheres to ancestral worship), Christmas doesn't really have any religious significance for us.  For as long as I can remember, it was never really celebrated, gifts were rarely exchanged, Mum opting for the easier task of giving money instead (what does a 7 year old want a tenner for?) and Dad never bothered at all.  For a few years we did decorate our house festively in the same old same old, and I used to sit under the fairy lights listening to Last Christmas by Wham, True by Spandau Ballet, the Rapture album by Anita Baker etc.  

Christmas card giving and receiving was a most political affair at school.  It was an indication of popularity and you only had to look at the design of the card to see just how much the giver liked you or not.  I decided to forego all this "nonsense" by announcing that I would not be "celebrating" Christmas when I turned 13.  I was such an idealist and thought I was such a cool person for shunning such mass commercialisation.  So for years and years, Christmas simply meant, time off school/ university/ work.  

Now, that I have children I have had to think what do I want this festival to mean to our family?  There's no trying to deny that this festival exists, because everything Christmassy is designed to draw the attention of children.  My husband and I do not adhere to any particular religion and it's hard to teach your children that when you do not hold the belief yourself.   So we've decided not to take the high road and just enjoy it as it is, a bit of fun, time off for everybody, a chance to see the extended family etc.  

What better way to round off Christmas Day (after we had to cancel an invitation to a slap up meal because Baby O came down with a fever and was sick) than by having a disco at home.  Blinking fairy lights make for excellent disco illuminations.   The Toddler has some real funky moves (encouraged by her Dad) and even the Baby was givin' it some whilst cruising around.  I think for years to come when my babies have well and truly flown the nest, I will always always remember these moments of true silliness by our little family.