I've been thinking that Christmas is like a Christmas cake. All shiney and sparkling , but however it looks from the outside, the important part inside should be savoured. For weeks before, the ingredients need to be prepared and bought in advance; the rich fruits,nuts and spices, the sugar, fat and flour.
How it is measured on the baking day will never make up for how it is appreciated when it is cut open then eaten. Inside the flavours and textures please some more than others; the sweetness might set some people's teeth on edge; the nuts may be hard to swallow if not chewed properly and the colour with the texture makes for an interesting palette;smooth in places, mixed and injected with an occasional bright cherry then a nutty surprise hidden in the same mouthful.
The important thing to remember is that although the ingredients are all necessary to make a special cake, some are preferred more than others.
Christmas is a day that brings together friends and families filled with traditional fayre. The way it's wrapped up speaks of the sparkle and delight it excites.
Whatever preparations are made in advance, those who are together should spend time to appreciate each other and their differences.
Expectations before savouring the day may be high but the way it is enjoyed is entirely up to the taster.
My wish for you this year is that your Christmas sparkle uncovers a time of celebration mixed with a variety of fayre. Most of all that the ingredients that make up your Christmastime will be enjoyed.
