It's the final countdown

WE all flirt with the idea of doing something different for Christmas, and occasionally we do, but, inevitably there are always whimsical remarks tinged with nostalgia about the traditional roast turkey or goose with all the trimmings.

So this year let's have "the works", but in the interest of self-preservation, make a detailed plan.

Countdown to Christmas: During this final week before the big day, snatch a few quiet moments, make yourself a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, put your feet up and make a few detailed lists. I love to set up the crib first, to remind me of the raison d'être for the whole celebration and to get me into the true spirit of Christmas. Our grandchildren gather round to help, wide-eyed with wonder as they hear the story of Joseph and Mary and then place the little baby Jesus in his tiny crib. They love to help to bring in the holly and, of course, to decorate the Christmas tree.