Step into Christmas

IT’S not often you have to stop decorating your tree to watch an old lady die on TV, but that’s exactly what happened on Sunday.
Yes, Nana Moon has departed for the Albert Square in the sky, leaving teary eyes both on and off screen.
I’d finally summoned enough Christmas spirit to get my £5 bargain out of the shed and position it in the window when I noticed the Moons were doing the same — and that Nana was still alive. Having missed this episode during the week, I’d been told it was one not to miss, so the tinsel and trimmings were put on hold.
I thought I was late last year getting into the festive mood, but with a week to go I figured it was time to make the effort. I believe my humble abode is now up to an optimum standard. I’ve even made a festive feature using a fruit bowl, red tinsel, baubles and pine cones that Janet Ellis would be proud of.
The cards I have received are up on ribbons, my trinkets have been unwrapped and displayed throughout the place, and my very strange looking green reindeer with gold tinsel antlers is standing guard at the front door.
Although my cards have only just been written and posted, I did manage to get a head start on my present buying. The internet is such a brilliant thing — the only time I have been shopping on terra firma is to buy things for myself!
Give or take a few minor mishaps, I’m very pleased with the outcome of my purchases. I usually try to be considerate when buying for my loved ones, but sometimes time and money constraints get in the way. This year I think I’ve done quite well — no cop-out socks or chocolates from me.
I’ve already started the social side of the season. I always find it the best when nights out aren’t planned and just ‘happen’. If you put too much expectation into a night it usually bombs. The down side to these impromptu nights is being completely unprepared and ending up teetering along Union Street in driving snow and stilettos. I think it was at this point, walking under the sparkling lights and slipping about like Torvill and Dean, that I felt for the first time that Christmas was well on its way.
Where does the time go when it’s not around here? I can hardly believe it’s a year ago since I sat down to write my annual festive address to Singled Out readers.
It’s also almost a year since I laid out my New Year’s resolution — to find a suitable male to spend general lovely times with, who lives within a 50 mile radius, is single and is of a suitable age/maturity and intelligence.
I have to say I’ve failed miserably. As my friend says: “I’ve planted plenty of seeds — but sown no wild oats.”
The most recent chance of a romantic liaison was obliterated by a busy pre-Christmas season. ’Tis the season for carol singing, presents and turkeys but not for starting relationships.
One thing has changed over the course of 2005 — my feelings for my Favourite Ex — highlighted in the absence of his name in many recent weeks.
I shouldn’t say feelings really, because deep down there will always be some to an extent, but it’s my intentions which are different.
I can’t say when the turning point came exactly, but I have definitely moved on. Realisation to this fact came when I recently spent lovely times with a suitable male, who lives within a 50 mile radius, is single and is of a suitable age/maturity and intelligence.
Not once did I think about or compare him to my Favourite Ex, which I’m thinking can only be a good thing. So the seeds have been sown. Hopefully by the spring, these will bloom into something beautiful. Then again, I’m not very good with things like that — my poinsettia is already showing signs of giving up despite following its care plan word of word.
I think I should apply my advice for impromptu nights out to my love life — that is not trying so hard and just letting things happen.
I’ve got a good feeling that 2006 is going to be my year. I have been saying this for the last few years, but this time I actually believe it’s possible. I have a new enthusiasm and passion to let it happen.
I’ve endeavoured to put to rest any negativity and conflict in my life before the year is out so that there is a fresh start for everyone in the New Year.
If there is one thing I’ve learned in recent years, it’s the importance of friendship and trust, and the value of being given a second chance.
To be surrounded by my friends and family this Christmas is the best gift I could ever have.
I wish you all a very happy Christmas and all the very best of everything for a prosperous and healthy new year.