A (would-be) White Christmas

---

Our first (would-be) 'White Christmas' was magic, albeit decidely devoid of the white fluffy stuff to which the title owes. We braved the craze of Dublin airport two days before Santas arrival, and managed to smile at the mayhem that reigned, despite the lengthy queues in every direction.

It was a huge relief to touchdown at Skarvsta airport where we were happily greeted by a very heavily pregnant Maria and an excited, though nervous father-to-be, Luke. It was absolutely wonderful to see Maria 'glowing' and the soon-to-be new arrival was a huge talking point among all of the family throughout the festive season.

Christmas was celebrated on 24th December at Maria's parents' home. After a delicious brakfast, we got oursleves all spiffed up...it suddenly iseemed Christmas had indeed arrived. And while we were a long way from home, some traditions seem to traverse all geographical borders, but none moreso than the compulsive need to munch one's way through the yuletide season.

All things Swedish were on the menu...meatballs and herrr ing and ham and salmon and of course, schnapps! Like all good Christmas feasts, everyone ate until they could eat no more...and then kept on eating for another two courses of course!!! Eventually we all retired to sit around the Christmas tree and exchange gifts before more drinking and general frivolity continued. It was a lovely

---