The Eve before Christmas

We are ready. My sausage rolls turned out pretty good, jumbo size to say the least. It has been a tradition in my family to start Christmas morning with sausage rolls and English mustard. My maternal grandmother would make them, and then my mum and now me.

These are my jumbo sausage rolls. Not particularly uniform in shape but they taste delicious (already eaten the smallest one!)

The gammon joint has been roasted ready for cold meats on Boxing Day. The pigs in blankets are made and the Turkey crown is marinating. Brussel sprouts and Chantenay carrots are prepared together with glazed parsnips. I shall fry the sprouts with water chestnuts, onion and bacon lardons in a little olive oil. This will be complemented with sage and onion stuffing balls and roast potatoes. Followed by Christmas pudding and Devon custard. Stilton cheese and a glass of port. Espresso coffee accompanied with a glass of 18 YO Aberlour single malt.

This will inevitable lead to a period of dozing on the sofa in front of the TV.

Sounds like Christmas....

The Eve before Christmas Eve

It has been a quiet day for me. The eve before Christmas Eve. A time for contemplation. My wife enjoyed her firm's Christmas lunch so I had only to cook for one this evening. Me. My only chore today was to buy Brussel sprouts and Chantenay carrots to complete the ingredients for Christmas lunch. Time then to enjoy some comfort time with our three cats - Bertie, Oliver and Riley. Peace on Earth, at least in my home...

I enjoyed a lunch of boiled eggs and a buttered, fresh baguette, followed by two satsumas - plump and juicy. I listened to the wonderful music of The John Tavener Collection, spiritually uplifting, particularly the track entitled 'The Lamb', performed by the English Chamber Orchestra, the Temple Choir and the Holst Singers. A uniquely significant choral work. Music for Christmas. Music for quiet contemplation.

Presents are wrapped and placed under the Christmas tree. I cannot wait to see my wife's face when she unwraps my gift to her. Something I have wanted to give her for so long. A diamond solitaire ring. Diamonds are forever as we are for each other. You have always shone bright for me, Ros...

So, for now I would like to wish you all peace and joy at this special time of year. May your Christmas be perfect.