It’s finally time to say, “It’s that time of the year again.”

Christmas has come upon us, and the lovely people in the retail sector just won’t let us forget that. Visiting Singapore’s downtown shopping route invites an absolute assault to the senses: the glitzy decorations, the overplayed Christmas carols, the smell of Christmas pastries, and the sight of shopping malls overflowing with fake Christmas trees, overpriced commercial Christmas cards and last-minute Christmas shoppers.

Is Michelle in a ‘Bah, humbug’ mood? Sort of. Because students from 4 polytechnics – Ngee Ann, Nanyang, Singapore and Temasek (Republic starts in January) – are back in school during the so-called ‘Christmas holidays’, thanks to the shift in the academic calendar. My poly mates and I are now attending classes and working on various projects, which is the most novel way to spend Christmas, of course. (Thanks, MOE.)

But don’t get me wrong. Christmas is still my favourite time of the year, despite the school factor. Beyond my cynicism, I really love Christmas for the glow it brings to the people around us, and the warmth it brings to cold evenings. Christmas is all about love. It’s a time spent with beloved family and friends, giving them the best from the bottom of your heart, and showing them how much you care. (Yes, the presents, even the ones that don’t cost much but are heartfelt, help too.)

And even though some of us here at The UrbanWire are in our ‘Bah, humbug’ stage, we still want to shower you with as much Christmas cheer as we possibly can give. We’re giving away exclusive movie memorabilia from Christmas With The Kranks, Ocean’s Twelve and Kung Fu Hustle this month; so do check our contest page for more information!

In the meantime, have yourself a most blessed Christmas, and a good year ahead! :)