In spite of being brought up in a predominantly Christian society, we never had any of the trappings of Christmas at home. But I did participate in Christmas activities at school and elsewhere. In fact, I have always enjoyed this time of year and have happily embraced the opportunity to have a good time. So it was with much pleasure that I prepared a traditional British Christmas dinner for my mother and some friends. This included a roasted turkey with stuffing, brussels sprouts with chestnuts, red cabbage and, of course, Christmas pudding. The table was adorned with glittering decorations together with Christmas crackers, which are a curious British invention.
Chistmas has no religious significance for me whatsoever, but I see no reason not to enjoy the ocassion. At this time of year when the days are so short and the weather is so cold, it's lovely to have a good excuse for colourful decorations, sparkling lights and partying. When your father was at school in London, he actually starred in his school's Christmas play in his last year at Camden Town School for Girls. He will explain why he went to a girl's school.
It's good to have my mother with me here in Prague for a week. She was keen to see the Queen's traditional Christmas message on television. Queen Elizabeth II has broadcast a festive message every year of her reign, and it's interesting to see how her style, tone and the content has changed to fit in with the times. This year's was particularly interesting.
