Christmas Good Wishes 2022

My Christmas tree

Now we are at the end of another year and they seem to go faster the older I get!

Here in New Zealand it is summer and the start of the long summer holidays for students.  Everybody's thoughts are on barbeques and long lazy days at the beach and, of course, Christmas.  Christmas is different here at the bottom of the world, no snow for us, or holly or little robin red breasts perched delicately on fence posts, despite the wintry Christmas cards they still sell in our shops.  Christmas dinner is a bit different too.  Although many people stick to the traditional Christmas dinners the early European immigrants brought to New Zealand more and more celebrate with a relaxed barbeque at the beach or in the back yard, albeit a bit fancier than usual...maybe with a crayfish, or lobster and some fancy salads. When I was a child we finished the meal with plum pudding containing shiny 3 penny pieces - it was so exciting to find one in your plate.  Nowadays most people have pavlova, with ice cream and fresh berries for dessert.  The old style Christmas here is evolving to become something more in keeping with our usually hot sticky Christmas days.

(I made the above video during lock down.  I hope every one who wishes to can travel now)

For myself, I am looking forward to having my family around for Christmas dinner. Mine is a mix of old and new...hot glazed ham, roast vegetables, green beans, ice cream, pavlova and fresh berries. The greatest joy of my day is being with family and seeing the excitement on my grandchildren's faces as they open their presents.

NB: If you will be alone at Christmas key in: Alone at Christmas in my search box for good ideas on how to spend the day.

Whatever the season the message of Christmas is the same the world over . It is a message of hope, peace, joy and goodwill to all.  You do not have to be a Christian to appreciate this message and it is my hope for all my readers. I also hope you all enjoy family time and have time to relax and that 2023 brings you only good things.

See you next year!