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For me the time between Christmas and early January has a special atmosphere - and that has nothing to do with religion. I love the fact that it’s a break from routine, when things grind to a halt and I can put off tasks until January. This gives me more time to write; and that’s what makes this period special. (Plus I also watch more TV: I’ve belatedly discovered the BBC comedy Ghosts; my favourite phantom is Robin, the chess-playing caveman).
 As for New Year’s Eve, I have just one ritual. To celebrate getting through another year, I drink a couple of glasses of champagne and dab a few drops on the nose of my carved wooden wolf (see photo). He was created by an artists of the Coast Salish First Nation of Canada, and I brought him back from a trip to Seattle, soon after Wolf Brother was published. He lives on the wall by my front door, and keeps watch over my house.
So that’s it from me for this year. Thank you for reading these newsletters, and thanks to everyone who sent me messages via my website. I’m never tired of hearing about your varied and fascinating responses to my books.
Whatever your beliefs or religion, I hope you have a peaceful and relaxing break from worries and work. Stay steady - and happy reading!
Michelle |
As for Christmas itself, I haven’t really done it for the past few years, which has made it quite peaceful. No presents or cards, and I spend the afternoon with my mother, as I do every day. We skip the Christmas tree too; and as for decorations, my favourites are the green parakeets on Wimbledon Common. I used to worry that they’d chase off the other birds, but I’ve come to like them, even the rackety ones who frequent my neighbour’s pear tree a few feet from my window (see photo). Besides, they always retire to roost sensibly early, so there’s no squawking at night!
