T'was The Night Before Christmas...

... and Santa was merry;
eating mince pies and
drinking the sherry!

Does that symbolise Christmas for you?  Indeed, Christmas is a time of excess.  Lots of food, drink, merriment and laughter.  Christmas versions of your favourite TV show, The Queen's Speech and time with your family and friends.

I also find I get quite sentimental around this time. Do you?

Over the last week, people have been battling to reach their Christmas destination; fighting against the elements, and many have made it.  Many more have not; and pictures on the television show what a state we, as a country, find ourselves when the weather is against us.

We are reminded that it's also a time for reflection.
A time to remember loved ones who have sadly passed;
A time to consider those less fortunate;
A time to consider those that, for whatever reason (weather included) cannot enjoy the festivities together.

My Blog and I is taking a short hiatus and will return fresh and ready to go in the new year.

Many thanks for your company through 2010.

I wish all of you a Very Merry Christmas and a bright and prosperous 2011.

My All-Time Favourite Seasonal Film

Last year I wrote a post about my favourite Christmas films, and my all time favourite is the 1946 classic "It's A Wonderful Life" by Frank Capra.

Every year I make a point of watching it, (with the Kleenex handy of course!)  It's wonderfully funny, sad, poignant and romantic.



The story of George Bailey, who feels useless and decides the world will be a better place without him, is a strange choice for a Christmas film.  However, this film has a real and important message about how our lives touch others, and it deals with issues like poverty and freedom and sacrifice.  It's these messages that makes it a perfect film to watch at Christmas.

I haven't seen the colourised version, and I'm not such a purist that I think it should have been left alone.  Having said that, whether black and white or colour, it is beautifully written and directed, and the arrival of Clarence, and his 'mini story' really brings it together.

Nominated for 5 Oscars at the 1947 Academy Awards, including Best Actor (James Stewart), Best Director and Best Picture; it never actually won; but that doesn't detract from the film that it is.

With wonderful characters, great cast and uplifiting message, this truly is a Wonderful Christmas Classic.

Lewis Hamilton - A Christmas Car(ol)

This was released last year, but, since it's the season of giving; here it is again.  Just make sure you have your speakers turned on...

It's a Coca Cola Christmas

Each year, somehow, the Coca Cola advert seems to mark the start of the Christmas season.

You know the one; with the big trucks driving through towns, with the Christmas lights turning on as they pass.  It's a heart-warming ad, and brings cheer and delight to all who watch it.

It was first run over 4 years ago; and still we enjoy it.

Here it is...


This year, another ad has been produced.  I've not seen this one on TV, but here it is - Snow Globes from Coca Cola...



Another magical advert; at a magical time of year.