CC is for Christmas Customs

In this series I alliterate a two-word title and then make myself write it. It’s a personal challenge that will get me out of a sticky patch where, while writing my novel, I’m not always coming up with the goods on my blog.

Customs Are Individual Choices

In our household of two older adults, me and him, we have always enjoyed staying home at Christmas time. With our (blended) family living in the four corners of England and Wales, opting not to travel far was a decision we made at the outset of our marriage.

Main reason – weather; Secondary reason – health; Tertiary reason – for access to buildings I have issues and staying in a hotel over the Christmas season is not as attractive as it may sound.

What Are the Customs We Keep?

We try hard to have all the presents bought, wrapped and in parcels, where posting is needed, by the close of November, having made a start in October. This year, we’ve finally cracked it Big Time. I wrapped every gift and, because time was mine, I thoroughly enjoyed doing so.

Early next week, four Christmas parcels will hit the post, making their way to Haverfordwest, Hull and Wimbledon respectively.

The even lovelier thing is we’ve seen everyone this year at least once. We are up to date with their news, we are actively caring for everything and anything that is occurring in their lives. And yes, I hope they read this and realise how precious they all are.

Food and Drink

Until this coming season, I’d have said we are glutinous traditionalists where Christmas food is concerned, and moderate drinkers. Sounds as though we’re about to binge? Not so.

During the year since major brain surgery in October 2020, I’ve lost a significant amount of weight, regained moderate fitness and agility (within the boundaries of my health problems) and discovered a self-image I love.

Therefore, I’ve no intention of eating to excess. I will have lovely dinners cooked by my gorgeous husband, some chocolate, the odd G&T, and I will not be eating excessively anything that, quite frankly, would put on far too many kilos. What is the point of boom and bust when it comes to eating habits? On 1st January 2022, I want to know I’m carrying on with the calorie counting that has got me to this point – not having to shift extra weight gained in a few days.

What Else Do We Do?

At one period in my life, I’d have been in Church on Christmas morning. Although my faith matters, I regret making my sons take part, assuming, as I do, they were not really enjoying it. (Most of) our Church family was lovely – my loved ones are far more wonderful.

We will continue to;

• enjoy opening presents slowly
• speak to everyone on Zoom or phone calls
• read new books
• enjoy TV and movies we really want to watch
• listen to music (a mixed bag of rock, pop, etc from several decades)
• play board games
• maybe begin a new jigsaw

At around 1700 hours, we will eat our turkey roast dinner. We always take a selfie of us both, for the record.

What Does It All Mean?

• Christmas is not an excuse for a commercial circus
• Christmas is not a credit card carnival
• Christmas is Our Saviour’s Birthday

Many people work over Christmas to provide hospitality, care, medical cover, emergency services, and even the corner shop might be open.

There won’t be peace right across the globe; the planet’s ecological status will not be saved overnight; not everyone will be ‘happy’.

So remember to give generously to any causes you can support, or is there someone you can invite into your home who would otherwise see no one at all? (Note: this is a personal choice, not a fashionable cause, or mandatory requirement).

Christmas Wishes to All the Later Writers

Be safe (Covid-wise)

Be sensible (in moderation)

Store up loads of ideas, research, plans and experiences for your writing life.

And HAVE SOME FUN!

More writing practice at ABC Alliterative Title Challenge.