Allotment sprouts and festive good wishes

So we survived the Mall, which wasn't too busy on the whole.  There was a fair bit of waiting around though, so we entertained ourselves by drinking hot chocolate from the opticians' machine and trying on bright orange glasses (me, couldn't resist).

After a while we repaired to the book shop which was really busy.  I felt sorry for the shop assistants, it was such a squeeze that people kept knocking the books off of the tables with their bags.  We left as soon as we could, which was after what seemed like two hours.

Yesterday I took the boys down to the allotment to pick the Christmas sprouts.  Do other countries have sprouts for lunch on Christmas Day or is it just a British thing?  I love them, it wouldn't be a proper lunch without them.

Next year I'd like parsnips from the plot for Christmas lunch as well, but this year it will just be sprouts.  Everyone has said they'll eat at least one!  Although if they don't I shan't mind.  But I think there's a mysterious allure in growing your own, the children are more likely to eat a home grown thing than a shop one.

A couple of unforeseen trips has put the cleaning and baking list a bit behind.  There's a lot still to do, and it must be done by lunchtime as we're off for a walk this afternoon, then we have people coming for food later.  I shall be like a mad woman for a few hours, people will need to give me a wide berth.  So it's time for me to sign off now, and wish you and yours a very happy Christmas.  I hope it all goes swimmingly, and I'll see you on the other side.  CJ xx