Well, it’s that time of the year again… or is it?

You don’t need me to tell you how unusual or challenging this year has been, God, don’t we all know it. There has been many a time I just want to run from my flat screaming, “Screw you 2020, you’re not the boss of me.”

But in fact, it has been the boss of me… the boss of all of us.

There have been some unexpected reminders of all those things in my life I might have taken for granted. Travel, dinner with friends at a favorite restaurant, manicures, a sing-a-long, pint in hand at The Duke of Kendal…a hug. All of that has been temporarily snatched from us, with no real promise of exactly when it is going to be returned.

There is a quote that says, “nothing ever goes away until it teaches us what we need to know.”

Well, I believe that is an incredible insight for 2020 and I hope the world… every single one of us is learning.

London, without its usual fanfare or its fabulous street lighting parties… still sparkles. There is magic even though Christmas this year will be very different for most of us. As I write this London abruptly went into Tier 4 lockdown, closing everything except essential services. As a last-minute Christmas shopper, this has left me without Christmas presents for most of those on my list. So for now, this is my Christmas gift for all of you.

To take a moment and focus on the good, the warm, and the beautiful. To recognize that, this too shall pass and everything in life is only for now.

A reminder that there is still a light that chases away the shadows. That we are not alone, but rather together in our isolation.

I have gathered some of my favorite Christmas photos, some current and some from Christmas past. These photos make me smile and they are reminders that The Covid-Grinch cannot steal Christmas.

…and I don’t know about you, but I could always use a little reminding.

From my bubble to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and may I add with fortified gratitude, a Happy and Healthy New Year.