Looks like a beautiful day for walking. Enjoy the downtime before work starts again. I too shall be having some downtime before returning to work in Jan.
Best wishes
Ann
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I just wanted to say I’ve enjoyed reading about everyone’s Christmas it’s been nice sharing - thanks to everyone. Everything is heightened with expectations and im sure it’s had its ups and downs for some.
So just wishing everyone a good happy and healthy 2026. And saying thanks to all on this community & our families.
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Christmas trade secrets
Here’s a celebratory tip for the next meal you are planning. It goes against tradition, sounds strange but has benefits and works well. It is how we do things these days.
Get all provisions together a day or two before the event. This gives you chance to spot any missing ingredient.
Next this is the important bit.
Do all the cooking at least a day ahead.
No need to rush you have all day.
Then put everything to one side.
On the big day, warm everything up, plate up and serve hot.
No stresses no strains and everything timed to perfection.
Also you get to enjoy that secret ingredient, time.
Have you never noticed how warm-ups have increased flavour the following day?
This way you incorporate this into a meal everyone will enjoy, though they probably won’'t realise the secret, and will wonder how you pull it off so easily.
Here’s to next time. Enjoy your meal.
keep on keepin on
@Gnasher
We chose chicken this year too. More moist. Easier to prepare. A better price. Follow the secret method and everything will be on your plate next time for the big day.
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Absolutely agree. I do this often. In the RAF we always thought the curry in the bar better after a few days - but maybe the Guinness helped!
Wouldn’t happen today i dont think!
Top secret stuff! - Enjoy,!
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Hey @Baldrick - this is where I get my inspiration from. Bobbi is forever coming up with tips and tricks and he always seems to be able to make them fun!
I must admit I do like the odd bottle of Guinness - in fact, I’m going to have one with my cauliflower cheese (variant) dish tonight 
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HI everyone,
and a belated Happy Christmas to you all.
I’ve enjoyed reading all your stories over the Christmas period.
It’s the middle of summer down here in New Zealand and I am envious to of those of you who have had snow and white Christmas.'. it all sounds so cosy and more traditional than our days in the summer! Although we’ve had a lot of rain this past week, Christmas Day was lovely with sunshine all day 
A quiet day spent with my Mum and then visiting some. friends.
It’s New years Eve day today and I’m spending time reflecting this past year, my growth and having stepped out if my comfort zone trying new things.
I wish you all peace, joy happiness and continued healing and. health in the coming new year. Keep being kind and connecting with others.
Warmest wishes, Alice 
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Happy new year. May 2026 be a year of positivity for you.
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Xmas was a tough time for me. My treatment slowed me down but family was very obliging. We have a family Xmas just before the real Xmas and everyone meets, talks and shares a meal. Here is a pix of last Xmas meeting. You will notice that it is in Summer here and the men are wearing shorts!
Deigh
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Great family picture.
Sorry to hear you had a tough Christmas. Hope things are a bit better for you now.