Oh well - and he's called me a cynical bastard.
Christmas is a magical time. Whether you're a God botherer, piss-artist, vendor of festive crap or just an ol' romantic softee (like Zarse really is).
I am one of eight children in my family (good catholic parents, see). My father swears to me that he has no idea how he managed to provide a happy, joyful and comfortable Christmas for us all, on the salary that he earned. He put it down to magic. My mother, on the other hand, put it down to her shrewd management of the family budget - but I prefer my dad's version. As a kid (with 7 brothers and sisters) Christmas was an utterly fantastic time. As I've got older and have my own off-spring, the magic has been perpetuated by my own child.
I think my ONLY regret in not being in England anymore is that Christmas in Florida is w**k, compared to the festive season at home. I miss the cold, foggy Yorkshire weather, at this time of year - cosy pubs and general goodwill. I'd rather be in England at Christmas - no question.
And on that happy note - all the very best to everyone on this forum. I hope Santa brings you everything you wished for - and a little more.
Andy, chill out and get some eggnog down you.