Our Christmas celebrations were a little… unconventional this year. Due to budget constraints, a big Christmas party seemed impossible. But, thanks to the initiative of a few classmates in our NC2 program, we managed a smaller, voluntary gathering. A group of us from BIT 3D NIGHT decided to make it happen.
The party wasn't until December 26th, a few days after Christmas, and was held on a beautiful, relatively quiet beach near our school. I almost didn't go – I hadn't initially planned on it – but my friends persuaded me, and I'm incredibly glad they did. The delicious meal our classmate prepared was a real highlight; such a thoughtful contribution to our celebration! Our gift exchange added an extra layer of fun; the 30-peso budget
was supposed to encourage humorous gifts, and I certainly received one! A giant toy trumpet – I couldn't stop laughing. My carefully chosen notebook/textbook (a far cry from funny!) cost me closer to 200 pesos, including wrapping. I picked it up at the local mall.
Meeting my classmate at her boarding house, we headed to the beach together. The atmosphere was perfect – relaxed, with just the right number of people.
It was disappointing that some classmates, despite their initial enthusiasm, couldn't make it due to unforeseen circumstances, but the smaller group made for a more intimate celebration.
The afternoon unfolded in a pleasant rhythm: a shared meal, plenty of photos, and a few lighthearted games. While I mostly observed, content to soak in the atmosphere, I did participate in one particularly memorable game involving straws and our mouths – a comical highlight! The sound of the waves crashing on the shore provided a soothing backdrop as I strolled along the beach.
Several of my classmates took a refreshing dip in the ocean, but I opted to remain on the sand, enjoying the moment from a slightly more sedentary perspective due to feeling a little under the weather.
Looking back, our late Christmas party was a reminder that the spirit of the season isn't about grand gestures, but about shared moments and cherished friendships. Even a little late, and slightly unconventional, it was truly merry.
