It was the night before Christmas and all through the tent, not a peg was missing, and not a pole bent. 

The citronella candle gave a scent to the air, in hopes that the mossies would soon not be there. 

My wife in her jumper and I in my shorts, had just settled down when we heard a noise of sorts. 

A rustle outside… could it be a possum?  Or a wild hedgehog… now that would be awesome!  

We fell soundly asleep to the sounds of the sea, waves crashing ashore just meters from me. 

When morning came, I awoke to a sight:  A miniature tree in the bright sunlight. 

Adorned with hearts and a girl with some poi, I knew that I must be an extremely lucky boy. 

The sun shone down upon gifts below, messages from loved ones surrounded by snow. 

After a savory scramble and a slice toast, we were off to the beach that Mel loves the most! 

Maitai Bay is a gem of place, where the water is turquoise and warm on your face. 

Lathered in sunscreen, we took to the waves, where we swam and floated in conditions one craves. 

Then back to our camp for a Christmas feast: grilled mushrooms, asparagus, and pork tenderloin, at least. 

We raised our glasses and in good cheer, said, “Merry Christmas to all, and to the Southern Hemisphere!”