One answer to the annual wails and moans about the commercialisation of Christmas: many many years ago midwinter was a pagan celebration then Christians came along and appropriated it. Now, the pagans are just trying to take it back......

Like Sandra I have recently had surgery, only mine was a shoulder op last month. One more week to wear the hot black synthetic fabric sling, just what one wants to wear against one's skin in the heatwave we've been having lately! But it will be left off when we go out to lunch on Christmas Day at a local restaurant, I'm wearing a pretty shirt and don't want it crushed, and that sling is not a fashion statement. It is possible to eat one-handed, even crimbo food.

Happy Thingmas and Seasonal Whatevers to all!