Charlie gave me a bag of gifts consisting of small stuffed rabbits and insect keychains (the usual Christmas presents as we all know) and I went around to each booth and table wishing them "Shang dao kualie" and Merry Christmas, showcasing my bilingual skills. I was met with looks of grave concern and astonishment but was not dissuaded in the least. That was only the beginning, because Santa had a lot of Christmas spirit flowing through his veins and wanted to spread it. From the bar, Santa went out onto the sidewalk and proceeded to wish all within earshot a very Merry Christmas. I was given a seat and accompanied by two friends wearing Christmas hats---my own Elven posse and refreshment providers. Passers-by and shoppers rushing home with their treasures were greeted and many pictures were taken.
My audience however was sporadic and thin so I needed to take action. Out of my seat and into the street I went. Taxis were stopped, given an insect keychain and sent on their way, cyclists were accosted for a quick picture and gift. Then along came the liang jingcha (the two policemen). Undaunted, I greeted them warmly with a boisterous "Shang dao Kualie" and provided them each with a stuffed rabbit. Overcome with the Christmas spirit, they hung the rabbits (very manly pink and yellow bunnies mind you) from their uniforms, beneath the badges, and took several photos with me. They refused my offer of a beer and continued along upholding the peace proudly displaying their Christmas goodies.
Merry Christmas
