Unwrapping LOCK CHUCK’s annual Christmas party with laughter and reunions - if you ask me what’s different this year, it’s the inspiration we brought back from the trip to Finland. Our good friend, Professor Teemu, drove us to Kyrö Gin Distillery. Knowing that we are a big fan of Kyrö, he wanted to share a glimpse of what’s behind the curtain: a tradition rooted in rye fields and a touch of alchemy - tuning the local harvest into a mood-lifted spirit. We had a great time at the distillery, originally an old dairy farm, where its architecture spoke tales of its past. Before we left, I found myself caught in a moment of reflection - Was I in a dream? Crossing half the globe to reunite with my friends and standing at the birthplace of a gin that I had long admired, everything just felt so perfect and surreal. My affection to this country has once again grown even more.
At the party, we raised our glasses with Kyrö Gin, served in its most traditional style with rosemary and cranberries. We are deeply loved in Finland. And we shared this sensational love in the small alley of Xi Niu Road.
Nate and Miko know the spirit of giving. For the fifth consecutive year, they co-hosted our Christmas party, serving the most soul-comforting spiced pumpkin soup. We have witnessed them from dating to walking down the aisle - and there are plenty more adventures ahead for them. If they are in town, their pumpkin soup for sure is at the heart of our celebrations.
In a city that never snows, there are a bunch of people who truly believe in Santa. The true spirit of connection came alive as we enjoyed our Secret Santa session. The innocent joy lit up the air when the secret gifts were unpacked.
Henry and his dogs joined the party again. Memories of last year’s party lingered vividly, even as we created new moments of joy and hope. Echo was again dressed up in her favorite red. It’s hard to say whether it’s the charm of Kyrö Gin and Glühwein or the festive warm air permeating that blushed her cheeks gorgeously. Nicole flew back from Melbourne, Ziqian from Ningbo - each crossing miles and miles to join in the celebration.
Sometimes we feel that the world is so vast as our hearts feel tugged when we say goodbyes. Yet in moments like these, the world feels so small, doesn’t it?
Olivier was the one capturing all these the festive moments. Here’s to kindness, connections, and the magic of a kaleidoscopic Christmas shining brightly in all our lives.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
