Christmas poses a few perennial questions for us.

1. How about going away this year – rent a converted barn – just us and the hounds?
   
   You wouldn’t have to cook – well, only for the two of us – and we can re-read all the LOWDOWNS in front of a log fire, if the hounds don’t block all the heat.
   
   Silence! I try again.
   
   Yes, it’’s nice having the family and I agree that Christmas is for children and grandchildren. But still, a peaceful time in a tiny Devon village with a church and pub to match, would make a change. And we would appreciate a family ‘do’ all the more on our return!
   
   No reply. So I know that tradition will prevail – and I don’’t really mind.
   
   

2. Why can’t you write the cards for me – most wives seem to?
   
   Still silence reigns. I take it that’’s a no, then?
   
   

3. Can we have a change from turkey this year?
   
   Maybe, duck or goose, perhaps. This is ruled out, firmly; as duck is too small and goose too rich –not for me, it isn’’t.
   
   

4. How many months will it be before the almost untouched Christmas pudding is found at the back of the freezer?
   
   As I am the only one who really enjoys it, I am only too delighted when it resurfaces again – tasting even better as a cold, and somewhat sticky, cake - if the brandy butter hasn’’t grown too much mould, it will make a real treat later in the New Year.

So, Christmas 2009 is fixed:

• We will stay at home and enjoy the family visiting.

• I will write my own cards.

• We will enjoy a large turkey.

• I can look forward to cold Christmas pudding in June.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, however you spend the time, and I know we all look forward to another year of sharing the love of our hounds and enjoy good company on various branch activities.

Cheers,