Christmas Cheer

The silly season is upon us. Most of us have succumbed to that distinct feeling of panic in the air, which gradually intensified as, like lemmings we rushed towards Christmas celebrations. Every year I tell myself I won’t get caught up in the mad rush, and every year I fail dismally.

The thing that really annoys me is that there is always so much to do before Christmas, yet, Christmas over, I have some time to relax, enjoy and treat myself, and nothing interesting is open. How dare other people take a holiday at the same time as me!

Every year Christmas is more commercialised. Saccharine so called carols blast from every shop. Fake snow is everywhere, and I struggle to find any reference to the real origins of our biggest festival.

We all eat and drink too much, overspend on our credit cards and spend the next month or so regretting both.

We rush around trying to get all our work finished before the holidays, even though most of it will wait till next year. And I really miss all the regular programmes on National Radio not to mention, and yes will I ‘fess up – I miss Shortland St!

But before I am accused of having a severe case of ‘bah humbug’ I can tell you that our pohutukawa is blossoming. I have just heard a beautiful concert of mediaeval Christmas music, and feeling a bit sad that I won’t see quite a few of my family members at Christmas.

And during the holiday season there will be a picnic in the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary, and maybe a ferry ride to Days Bay. Novels will be read and music listened to. Wellington is peaceful over the holiday season and we will relax, with time to reflect on the past year and plan for the next.

I wish everyone a peace and joy at Christmas, a safe and restful break, and a happy and successful New Year.

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