For the past 16 years I have spent Christmas on my own and this year will be no exception. Not ever having learned to cook from scratch, I have stocked up on items from the supermarket that I can prepare/microwave following the printed instructions: smoked salmon terrine to start, followed by chicken breast with apricot stuffing balls, fresh mashed potatoes, brussels sprouts and carrots, and to finish, traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter and cream. All washed down with a glass or two of Moet & Chandon champagne, several glasses of Barolo, and a good French Sauternes to accompany the pudding. It is imperative that the meal ends by 3.00pm so that I can Toast Her Majesty The Queen as she gives us her Christmas message, followed by another to my good friends around the world - that's you!

The day will probably conclude with mince pies and wine in front of the TV!

I begin socialising again on New Year's Eve when I join my neighbour for a special lunch, but the evening will find me alone again - which is fine by me.

Take care,
Ham.