I’ve arrived home to my parents’ house. It’s about 40 degrees outside, but still much cooler than being in my flat in the same temperature as they have airconditioning and I don’t.

So there’s a Christmas tree. And presents around the fire place. I may be 28 but when it comes to Christmas, I’m still five years old. Minus the getting up at 6:00 am (I gave that up when I worked long hours before and after Christmas in a department store).

I love giving presents. I love choosing them for the recipients. I love wrapping them all special. And I love giving them and seeing the (hopefully joyous) expressions on the recipients’ faces. (And of course I enjoy receiving them too!)

On Christmas day we’ll have a beautiful meal. I might make trifle. And on Christmas night we’ll go to a friend’s house for a party, again with beautiful food. I will wear a pretty dress. Maybe even the new Ladakh dress from Freez. I can’t wait!

I don’t celebrate Christmas because of religious reasons. I celebrate it because of family and friends and believe gift giving is a sign of my appreciation for them.

Two more sleeps until the fat man in the red suit arrives. So excited! (There is a large present by the fireplace with my name on it!!)

On a serious note, right now I’m thinking about a few friends who have had a difficult time this year with losses of their loved ones. Christmas can be a difficult time for many, and my thoughts and love goes out to my dear friends and others.

Peace and kindness to all x