I have once again shared another time-honored American tradition with my Chinese neighbors.  That being: the inebriated Santa Claus, of course.  For Christmas Eve, I ventured out to one of my favorite taverns called the Charlie Bar with some of the other Americans here in Bao-vegas.  After a few hours of good Christmas cheer, a Santa Claus suit was brought out by the propriter Charlie.  Knowing that only a Meiguo ren could be a proper Santa, he asked which of us would like to become Shang dan lao ren.  He then added that drinks would be free for whomever donned the suit.  As I am trying to save my yuan for later travelling, and already having rosy red cheeks and nose, I stepped willingly into my new role.  Boots, beard, bag of goodies, hat and robe I had it all. 

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