While Christmas can bring so much joy into many hearts, this time of year can also be quite difficult for people who are alone, missing a loved one or stuck in hospital.  Lots of people (like Santa) are working over the holidays, others live abroad and can’t get home, so sometimes the pressure to have a picture postcard Christmas can just be too much.  My wish for everyone is that they have good food, good company and good cheer (you can see I’ve got my priorities right!) and that you enjoy the day in whatever way you choose to mark it.  It might just be a walk out in the crisp air, calling an old friend or downing a full box of chocolates (while watching all of the Downton Christmas specials – oops, my plans slipping out again!).  I think the whole point, as Dickens said, is to honour the spirit of Christmas in your heart.  And in that vain, please listen to this beautiful song by Lisa Hannigan and if you buy it (which I’m sure you will once you’ve heard it), you’ll be helping the homeless charity Simon with their Christmas appeal.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported my writing over this past year and taken the time to read, chat, comment or like!  Happy Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!