View Full Version : 77 days
Audio Al
08-10-2014, 17:03
77 days till CHRISTMAS :D
:christmas::christmas::christmas::christmas::chris tmas::christmas::christmas::christmas::christmas:: christmas::partytime::partytime:
The Barbarian
08-10-2014, 17:21
loverly more pointless expence
Firebottle
08-10-2014, 17:51
Don't you bl**dy start, it's bad enough when all the 'festive season' ads start on the telly :steam:
:cool: Alan
walpurgis
08-10-2014, 17:51
Yes, the impending horror of our ghastly, over commercialised, American styled, Christmas looms. There should be a law preventing any promotion of Christmas events, sales and festivities (and all the other associated rubbish) until at least December!!
It's absurd that as soon as kids are back at school after holidaying in August, Christmas crap starts being promoted in the shop and toy and Christmas related commercials start flooding the TV.
Then of course from the beginning of January, Easter Eggs will be on sale.
What a load of sh*te!!!
Merry bloody Xmas!! :steam: (;))
The Barbarian
08-10-2014, 17:52
+1
already got the sprouts on
The Barbarian
08-10-2014, 18:01
When christmas comes i try make all the decorations look like they did when i was a kid. {ie i bought all original vintage decorations}Back then things were mighty different to what they are now. If i can help it i will avoid the TV like the plague, i don't want to see any commercial influence creeping in what so ever.
Commerciality is the bane of my life
When christmas comes i try make all the decorations look like they did when i was a kid. {ie i bought all original vintage decorations}...
Me too! :respect:
At that time of year, our home is a shrine to a more relaxing, down to earth, and sadly bygone ‘golden era’, which fortunately the style of our house lends itself well to :)
Marco.
Just got to get past Halloween first.
DarrenHW
08-10-2014, 18:41
I can't wait, with all the bank holidays I plan to install the dedicated spur for my system and decorate the lounge with plug sockets and conduit!
already got the sprouts on
:lol:
Love Chrimbo me- bring it on.
:popcorn:
mr sneff
08-10-2014, 18:50
79 days 'til it's all over then.....
I can't wait, with all the bank holidays I plan to install the dedicated spur for my system and decorate the lounge with plug sockets and conduit!
Now *that* is what I call a Christmas pressie (to yourself) :exactly:
Defo come over to our place for a few drinks during the festivities, dude? :)
Marco.
Just got to get past Halloween first.
Easy - you don’t open the door to any bugger! ;)
Marco.
southall-1998
08-10-2014, 19:53
Christmas, another load of bollocks!
S.
The Barbarian
08-10-2014, 20:55
:lolsign:
I sometimes get a free meal......sometimes:(
walpurgis
08-10-2014, 21:20
Would that be 'Meals on Wheels' Grant? :D
Would that be 'Meals on Wheels' Grant? :D
Sort of, yes....I need wheels to go get it:lol:
southall-1998
08-10-2014, 21:37
Sort of, yes....I need wheels to go get it:lol:
So not really a free meal then!
S.
I force the boy to pay for the petrol, and me Daughter doesn't charge me for the food....occasionally she picks me up. I always used to make the dinner at my house but not lately..Its a bit too much for me now. Pity as I liked doing it. My oatmeal stuffing is fabulous even if I do say so.
walpurgis
08-10-2014, 21:59
My oatmeal stuffing is fabulous.
Not heard of that one. Is it painful? :lol:
Not heard of that one. Is it painful? :lol:
:lolsign: No, not at all, its delicious and a gourmet recipe you'll probably not find now. Dont know anyone that can make it now. same as my potted hough; its the real McCoy too,(unlike the crap you get in the butchers) passed down through the generations...Most people I know demand a wee drop as a xmas pressie, so although it takes about 8/10 hrs to make I do it every year.
I make the oatmeal for several people too for their xmas dinners
As with previous years I will only countenance discussion of Christmas is it is prefixed by f**king...
This year I've made plans to avoid f**king Christmas altogether by leaving the country the week beforehand and returning the week after. Mrs B and I will spend f**king Christmas day on a ship somewhere in the Caribbean.
I'm frankly ecstatic at the prospect.
walpurgis
08-10-2014, 23:34
If the family aggravate me, I may well disappear to an isolated 'Christmas Free' zone. My brother's place, 300 miles from home and very quiet! Nice!!
DarrenHW
09-10-2014, 05:36
Defo come over to our place for a few drinks during the festivities, dude? :)
Marco.
Defo! :cool:
Nice one, dude. Looking forward to it! :thumbsup:
Marco.
Up until the last few years I loved christmas and all that goes with it. The last few years and especially last year it was utterly dire. Nobody phoned us. No one even gave us decent pressies. On boxing day I was in a deep depressive state that only lifted after the new year.
Christmas?
For kids
we dont have any
nuff said..
My goodness, slit your wrists now, eh….! :doh: :eyebrows:
Up until the last few years I loved christmas and all that goes with it. The last few years and especially last year it was utterly dire. Nobody phoned us. No one even gave us decent pressies.
Ever heard of the joy of giving, John, not just receiving? So who did YOU phone last year and what presents did YOU give….? Maybe, they stopped phoning and giving presents because you did - and were too much of an old curmudgeon to bother? ;)
Bah humbug, indeed!
Marco.
Last year all the family agreed that we didn't need any gift or presents from each other but, since we weren't spending it together, at a family dinner the week beforehand we each drew the name of a charity/good cause from a bowl and passed the iPad around to make donations.
It was a nice feeling to know that by the time our dinner was done, a good number of causes were much better off. We will be doing the same this year.
Drove past a house today and they were displaying Christmas Decorations.:)
walpurgis
09-10-2014, 22:17
Drove past a house today and they were displaying Christmas Decorations.:)
Ridiculous! :rolleyes:
southall-1998
09-10-2014, 22:33
Drove past a house today and they were displaying Christmas Decorations.:)
Next time, have a big water gun handy!!
S.
Ninanina
09-10-2014, 23:37
My local card shop has had Christmas cards in since mid August... crazy... just crazy... I hate how commercial and American our Christmas is now... :(
The Barbarian
10-10-2014, 03:56
Ever heard of the joy of giving, John, not just receiving? So who did YOU phone last year and what presents did YOU give….? Maybe, they stopped phoning and giving presents because you did - and were too much of an old curmudgeon to bother? ;)
Bah humbug, indeed!
Marco.
That's something else that gets my goat. Christmas is like an exchange with people they expect present to around the same value back. You don't buy they don't buy etc etc.. People are pathetic little gits. I now don't buy for or entertain them at this time of year washed my hands for good..
Gordon Steadman
10-10-2014, 05:43
Christmas is a family get together time or should be at least. My wife and I never buy each other presents either at Christmas or birthdays. We like to think that we are together 365 days a year. If we want something, we discuss it and buy it if we can afford it.
Its far more important to show how you feel about someone by your constant behaviour, not by a special one off.
I am blessed to be married to someone down to earth, practical and smart. Maybe we are not all so lucky. Her brother is married to someone that demands all these 'special' little shows of affection and is hurt if she is not surprised all the time with offerings to boost her sense of worth.
Christmas....bah humbug indeed:).
However, we will enjoy our version:cool:
As with previous years I will only countenance discussion of Christmas is it is prefixed by f**king...
This year I've made plans to avoid f**king Christmas altogether by leaving the country the week beforehand and returning the week after. Mrs B and I will spend f**king Christmas day on a ship somewhere in the Caribbean.
I'm frankly ecstatic at the prospect.
This is a smart man speaking great wisdom.
I've no choice but to spend it with the family although this year I will have a hotel room as a bolt hole to escape to when the kids get too much.
For me, there’s no point whatsoever in giving a present to someone unless you *know* that they will want it/like it. Buying any old shite, just for the sake of giving someone a ‘gift’, is a complete waste of time and money, as it’ll soon only be destined for the bin or charity shop!
There’s also little kind sentiment behind the exercise, and more a case of grudgingly 'fulfilling an obligation'. If that’s the case, you're better not bothering.
That’s why, throughout the rest of the year, way before Christmas, I take note of things friends and family have said that they like, either in conversation or when we’re out together somewhere, and then afterwards buy it for them. That way, no matter how small the gift is, it’s always appreciated by the recipient, simply because there’s been some effort and thought put into it :)
Marco.
This is a smart man speaking great wisdom.
I've no choice but to spend it with the family although this year I will have a hotel room as a bolt hole to escape to when the kids get too much.
Luckily, I’m close to all my family and have some very good friends (same with Del), so always really enjoy their company, eating, drinking and being merry. The festive period is always a cheery and joyful time for us. No noisy kids present though - thank fook! :eyebrows:
Aside from all the commercial bullshite (which we divorce ourselves from), we love Christmas. The way to make it truly magical and meaningful, if you don’t have kids, is to have a practicing religious faith (as we do), then the REAL meaning of Christmas comes alive!
:exactly:
Marco.
I usually ask the family what they'd like and if I can afford it I get it for them. As for myself, a bottle of sommat nice is all I want, but if I get anything extra then whoopee!
It is true its become silly commercial, and keeping up with the Jones,s etc but I don't mind. Seeing happy faces is worth it
Luckily, I’m close to all my family and have some very good friends (same with Del), so always really enjoy their company, eating, drinking and being merry. The festive period is always a cheery and joyful time for us. No noisy kids present though - thank fook! :eyebrows:
Aside from all the commercial bullshite (which we divorce ourselves from), we love Christmas. The way to make it truly magical and meaningful, if you don’t have kids, is to have a practicing religious faith (as we do), then the REAL meaning of Christmas comes alive!
:exactly:
Marco.
The rest of the family do the church thing, I don't because that is a rare chance for me to get some peace and quiet. I'm used to living alone in total peace and quiet so to suddenly be staying in a house full of kids all under 5 years old is a bit of a shock to the system. I really can't cope with it for much more than an hour or two.
Beobloke
10-10-2014, 11:54
The way to make it truly magical and meaningful, if you don’t have kids, is to have a practicing religious faith (as we do), then the REAL meaning of Christmas comes alive!
Well, we don't have kids and I'm a committed atheist, but I still love Christmas!
The rest of the family do the church thing, I don't because that is a rare chance for me to get some peace and quiet. I'm used to living alone in total peace and quiet so to suddenly be staying in a house full of kids all under 5 years old is a bit of a shock to the system. I really can't cope with it for much more than an hour or two.
Oh, I know. I’d be exactly the same - can’t abide that sort of continual din :nono:
It even gets to me when we’re out in a pub, and there’s a load of rowdy folk there (often cackling women, ‘laughing’ at nothing - you know that kind of ‘heeheehee' false laughter they do?), and who love the sound of their own voices - does my fooking tits in! :rolleyes:
No, when Del’s at work, I’m also used to total tranquility (aside from music playing, logs crackling on the fire and the cats purring). When Del gets home (and she’s been subjected to said din all day from the kids in college), the atmosphere is still un-stressful and relaxed, as we’re either chatting, listening to music whilst enjoying a glass of wine, or watching TV - bliss! :)
Marco.
Well, we don't have kids and I'm a committed atheist, but I still love Christmas!
Nice one, Adam. There’s still something magical about that time of year, isn’t there? :)
I love it now, actually, in Autumn. Especially going for walks in the local park, just after it’s rained...
Late afternoon is best, just before it gets dark, and when there’s always that magical (almost electric) smell in the air, trudging through wet leaves and fallen chestnuts. Then returning home afterwards, as nightfall beckons, for a hot cup of tea and home-made cake, while warming your bones by the fire. It’s such a cosy and satisfyingly ‘human' feeling.
Awesome! :exactly:
Marco.
The Barbarian
12-10-2014, 13:16
If you are atheist {Like me} what difference is Christmas day to any other holiday day? No difference to me other than memories of when i was a kid
Audio Al
12-10-2014, 15:35
Only 73 days now :D
The Barbarian
12-10-2014, 15:36
Actually this is the first Christmas day myself & the wife have spent in our own home due to the previous job not allowing us to do so.
You might enjoy it more then this time, dude :)
The key, for me, to having is an enjoyable Christmas (note the following words in capitals being the most important) is having TIME to be TOGETHER as A COUPLE or as A FAMILY, RELAXING, DOING THINGS you WANT (not need) TO DO, and hopefully indulging in a little decadence - and also BRINGING PLEASURE TO OTHERS.
In essence, it should be total escapism from (for even for a short time) the humdrum nature of everyday existence - a time to chill out and recharge your batteries.
If the key words in capitals, above, won’t be featuring in your Christmas this year, chances are it’s not going to be enjoyable……..
Marco.
The Barbarian
12-10-2014, 16:08
Aye i try to escape contact from the world & all it's inhabitants on a daily basis if i can..
:D
walpurgis
12-10-2014, 16:40
Aye i try to escape contact from the world & all it's inhabitants on a daily basis if i can..
:D
Good idea Andr'e. I've banned my mob of a family from following me into my 'den'. At least there, I can get some peace and quiet! :)
Luckily, I’m close to all my family and have some very good friends (same with Del), so always really enjoy their company, eating, drinking and being merry. The festive period is always a cheery and joyful time for us. No noisy kids present though - thank fook! :eyebrows:
Aside from all the commercial bullshite (which we divorce ourselves from), we love Christmas. The way to make it truly magical and meaningful, if you don’t have kids, is to have a practicing religious faith (as we do), then the REAL meaning of Christmas comes alive!
:exactly:
Marco.
True, that is why I hate to see Xmas. For it is Christmas without him.
Btw I'd describe both Mrs B and I as Christian but not of the happy clappy variety and wherever we are we'll make a birthday toast to him as is our custom.
Lol@happy clappy…. :eyebrows: Neither are we, just practicing Catholics. We do sing hymns at mass, though.
Carols at Christmas, sung by the choir and congregation (numbering 100s), when the nice old church we go to is all candlelit and beautifully decorated with a huge tree, and all sorts of other Christmassy stuff, is a particularly moving experience - that’s when you feel the *real* Christmas :)
Marco.
Threads out of date...72 days to new toy time!
I like seeing the whole family together, as its probably the only time it happens, and then the peace when they all go is glorious . Funny, My dad was buried on hogmaney when I was fairly young so never celebrated it much and son was buried a week before Xmas so having family around is good.
Audio Al
19-10-2014, 12:06
66 days
My first box of mince pies for the 2014 season :D
13380
Box? We make our own, along with the Christmas cake! ;)
Marco.
Audio Al
21-11-2014, 23:59
33
:christmas::christmas::christmas::christmas::chris tmas::christmas::christmas::christmas::santa::sant a:
walpurgis
22-11-2014, 00:09
I'm halfway through erecting strong anti-Christmas barricades outside my home. I just hope they hold. :eek:
Enjoyed looking at Romford's Christmas lights tonight (from inside the pub)
I'm getting a meal at my daughters on xmas day so looking forward to it. I'll make some of the sides and take them with me and buy wine. With a tad of luck I might wangle a lift too then I can get plastered. :lol:.........haven't had a meal made for me for a long time
I'm halfway through erecting strong anti-Christmas barricades outside my home. I just hope they hold. :eek:
A machine-gun nest works as well. If you can't afford that then some undies on the front fence are very effective.
Audio Al
22-11-2014, 04:52
If you can't afford that then some USED undies on the front fence are very effective
Slight correction ;)
The pong from your clatty-jellackies would certainly keep things away!! :D
Marco.
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 18:53
I love Christmas for family & friends getting together and I like it for the food and drink but I hate if for all the commercialism and the religious bit..
I'm an atheist :D
The religious people I have come in contact with, and know well, are some of the most dishonest people I have ever met and I believe most religious people see it as a hobby because they don't have anything else better to do with their time.....:sofa:
I'm prepared for the flack... :D:D
Lol - well there goes me, as a practicing Catholic! ;)
Marco.
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 20:04
Atheism is a religion.
Not in my books it isn't.. OK i'm a non believer is that better ?? and I don't need religion as a hobby as I have loads of other hobbies to keep me busy :D
Is atheism a religion?
Yes - http://creation.com/atheism-a-religion
and
No - http://atheism.about.com/library/FAQs/ath/blathm_rel_religion.htm
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 20:14
Lol - well there goes me, as a practicing Catholic! ;)
Marco.
I always say: "each to their own"...
I just don't need it that's all... ;)
Absolutely, Bev. I judge people as I find them - couldn’t give a damn whether they’re Atheists, Protestants, Jews, Muslims, black, white, or whatever! :)
Marco.
Not in my books it isn't.. OK i'm a non believer is that better ??
You believe there is no God so you can't be a non-believer. It's just the flip side of believing in God. Neither can be proven so both positions require faith. Agnostics are the non-believers. :)
Audio Al
22-11-2014, 20:24
I believe in facts and evidence = I'm not religious either
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 20:25
Absolutely, Bev. I judge people as I find them - couldn’t give a damn whether they’re Atheists, Protestants, Jews, Muslims, black, white, or whatever! :)
Marco.
My thoughts exactly... I have a very good friend who is into all that religious stuff but that doesn't stop me liking him....:)
Not in my books it isn't.. OK i'm a non believer is that better ?? and I don't need religion as a hobby as I have loads of other hobbies to keep me busy :D
? :scratch:
I believe in facts and evidence...
Except when it comes to hi-fi :D
Marco.
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 20:27
Except when it comes to hi-fi :D
Marco.
:rfl:
So true... :D
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 20:39
I don't need religion as a hobby a? :scratch:
Barry that's only my thoughts on the subject... ;)
walpurgis
22-11-2014, 21:09
Atheism is a religion.
People say that, blowed if I know why. I'm an Atheist Martin. It is not a religion. As an Atheist, I see religion as collective superstition. An Atheist knows there is nothing to believe except what you see in front of you, i.e., reality.
(by the way. Agnostics are people who've found nothing to believe in)
Each to their own, I guess.
Gordon Steadman
22-11-2014, 21:16
People say that, blowed if I know why. I'm an Atheist Martin. It is not a religion. As an Atheist, I see religion as collective superstition. An Atheist knows there is nothing to believe except what you see in front of you, i.e., reality.
(by the way. Agnostics are people who've found nothing to believe in)
Each to their own, I guess.
Its a way for the religious to put the non-believer at their own level. The non belief in something cannot be a belief and therefore cannot be a religion. As is pointed out quite often, I don't believe in fairies so does that mean I have a religion based on the non belief in fairies. Obvious nonsense.
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 21:26
People say that, blowed if I know why. I'm an Atheist Martin. It is not a religion. As an Atheist, I see religion as collective superstition. An Atheist knows there is nothing to believe except what you see in front of you, i.e., reality.
(by the way. Agnostics are people who've found nothing to believe in)
I couldn't have said it better myself... ;)
People say that, blowed if I know why. I'm an Atheist Martin. It is not a religion. As an Atheist, I see religion as collective superstition. An Atheist knows there is nothing to believe except what you see in front of you, i.e., reality.
.
You are buffered from objective reality so you cannot know it you can only be confident in what you think is reality. To make any absolute suppositions about reality is impossible therefore anyone who does is operating a belief system based on faith and that is exactly what a religion is. You cannot say there is definately no such thing as faeries, only that their existence is highly improbable. For anyone to be 100% certain there are no fairies or God (and what constitutes a fairey or a God is another debate) is impossible.
Religion if taken in small measures wont do you any harm, and will likely do more good tbh. Too much though can produce a zeal that can be harmful. Much the same as alcohol in a slight way. I am not personally religious in that I dont pray, go to church etc, but dont "don't believe" either. All things are possible, and mankind does not know everything.....yet!
I do but thats just me:eyebrows:
walpurgis
22-11-2014, 23:11
You are buffered from objective reality so you cannot know it you can only be confident in what you think is reality. To make any absolute suppositions about reality is impossible therefore anyone who does is operating a belief system based on faith and that is exactly what a religion is. You cannot say there is definately no such thing as faeries, only that their existence is highly improbable. For anyone to be 100% certain there are no fairies or God (and what constitutes a fairey or a God is another debate) is impossible.
Yes I can!;)
. All things are possible, and mankind does not know everything.....yet!
:
That is my take on it. It is a bit arrogant for us to sit here on our ball of rock, having not too long ago evolved from apes, in a universe so massive it defies comprehension, and categorically state that there is no this or that, we know it for certain. For me that needs a tremendous leap of faith.
Ninanina
22-11-2014, 23:41
You are buffered from objective reality so you cannot know it you can only be confident in what you think is reality. To make any absolute suppositions about reality is impossible therefore anyone who does is operating a belief system based on faith and that is exactly what a religion is. You cannot say there is definately no such thing as faeries, only that their existence is highly improbable. For anyone to be 100% certain there are no fairies or God (and what constitutes a fairey or a God is another debate) is impossible.
http://www.jonrb.com/emoticons/getmecoat.gif
Far too deep for me...
walpurgis
22-11-2014, 23:41
The existence of the universe and human existence is just a fluke! It needn't have happened, it just did. :eek:
I believe most religious people see it as a hobby because they don't have anything else better to do with their time.....:sofa:
I'm prepared for the flack... :D:D
Where do you live Bev, Dibley?
Gordon Steadman
23-11-2014, 06:17
Yes I can!;)
So can I:)...I can make statements of opinion as fact just as well as Macca.
By the way a 'religion' is defined as believing in the supernatural so not believing doesn't fit the bill.
Religion if taken in small measures wont do you any harm, and will likely do more good tbh. Too much though can produce a zeal that can be harmful.
The secret is not to impose your views on others, and just get on with doing your own thing in private. The worst followers of religion are the fanatical types, who try to ‘convert’ others to their faith, especially those who don’t want converting - or convert non-believers to believe.
Growing up in an catholic Italian family, for me was just a way of life, and still is, but I would never impose my religious beliefs on anyone, unless they had an interest in them :)
Marco.
Gordon Steadman
23-11-2014, 09:17
The secret is not to impose your views on others, and just get on with doing your own thing in private. The worst followers of religion are the fanatical types, who try to ‘convert’ others to their faith, especially those who don’t want converting.
Growing up in an catholic Italian family, for me was just a way of life, and still is, but I would never impose my religious beliefs on anyone, unless they had an interest in them :)
Marco.
Quite right. I have nothing against religion, I too grew up in a devout family - methodist not catholic - and spent my growing years immersed and in study. I had to put up with my eldest sister's first husband who was a pulpit thumping lay preacher from Yorkshire (I'm not sure if there is a connection:)). Who knows, it might have been what changed my mind.
However, you only have to look around to see the result of evangelical zeal. Religion is a private thing between you and your god - or gods.
Quite right. I have nothing against religion, I too grew up in a devout family - methodist not catholic - and spent my growing years immersed and in study. I had to put up with my eldest sister's first husband who was a pulpit thumping lay preacher from Yorkshire (I'm not sure if there is a connection:)). Who knows, it might have been what changed my mind.
Nightmare… There’s nothing worse than that ‘bible thumping’ thing. Mind you, it’s the same the other way round. I also can’t stand it when those with no religious beliefs try to ‘hammer home’ how there is no such thing as God, as it’s ‘impossible’, and make out that you’re a loon if you think the opposite… :nono:
Religion is a private thing between you and your god - or gods.
Precisely. Also, when it comes to religion, it’s usually best to keep your thoughts to yourself, if you think that they might cause offence to someone else of an opposite mindset.
Marco.
Gordon Steadman
23-11-2014, 09:29
Also, when it comes to religion, it’s usually best to keep your thoughts to yourself, if you think that they might cause offence to someone else of an opposite mindset.
Marco.
I dunno....these days that probably means you don't say anything at all. Offense (with an 'S':lol:) WILL be taken by someone, somewhere:doh:
Touchy subjects, Gordon, politics and religion. Unless I feel comfortable discussing them with someone, I usually steer well clear!
However, like I said, there’s nothing worse than someone trying to ‘force’ their beliefs or opinions on you, whether they are God believers or non-believers/atheist. The most arrogant, dogmatic and vociferous of the latter, though IMO, tend to be that way because they’re trying to hide something (usually guilt or insecurity), rather like those who are vociferously anti-gay.
Think about it ;)
My view? Just let people get on with they want to do (providing that it’s legal and not harming anyone else), and ‘keep themselves to themselves’, unless prompted otherwise :)
Marco.
Ninanina
23-11-2014, 19:05
Where do you live Bev, Dibley?
Nope.... like I said these are just MY thoughts on the subject.... ;)
What is it that Atheists celebrate at Christmas?
Ninanina
23-11-2014, 19:53
What is it that Atheists celebrate at Christmas?
Absolutely nothing......just a time for friends and family getting together and good food and drink...
Absolutely nothing......just a time for friends and family getting together and good food and drink...
But you can do that any time of the year - why as an atheist does one do things differently around this time?
walpurgis
23-11-2014, 20:07
What is it that Atheists celebrate at Christmas?
I'm sure the seasonal break is welcomed, as are all breaks. I don't celebrate because it's Christmas, but see no harm in joining in the enjoyment of others.
I don't think any of my family really think about the origins of Christmas and its significance to the religious.
Ninanina
23-11-2014, 20:13
Barry.....But you can do that any time of the year - why as an atheist does one do things differently around this time?
I'm sure the seasonal break is welcomed, as are all breaks. I don't celebrate because it's Christmas, but see no harm in joining in the enjoyment of others.
I don't think any of my family really think about the origins of Christmas and its significance to the religious.
What Geoff said.....:D
I don't celebrate it because of the whole Jesus thing. That only took over from the Yule festival they had prior to Christianity. What the origins of that are is obscure. Maybe just to cheer everyone up at the darkest time of the year.
Audio Al
23-11-2014, 21:01
:christmas::santa: 31 :santa::christmas:
I don't celebrate it because of the whole Jesus thing. That only took over from the Yule festival they had prior to Christianity. What the origins of that are is obscure. Maybe just to cheer everyone up at the darkest time of the year.
Yes - celebrating the Winter Solstice would be a far better excuse than just going along with the herd.
What the origins of that are is obscure. Maybe just to cheer everyone up at the darkest time of the year.
Aside from those who suffer from SAD syndrome, which I can appreciate and sympathise with, I’ve never understood why folk need ‘cheered up’, just because it’s dark. I actually quite like the dark. In many ways, it’s far more interesting than the light!
One thing about it for me is that it’s rather more ‘atmospheric’, and I like how the weather conditions at this time of year can be quite ‘spooky’, especially when it’s foggy… Anyway, I look forward to when it gets to about 4pm, just as daylight is fading, and I light the log fire and all the candles we have dotted about the place, and get the room all warm and cosy for the rest of the evening.
There’s a certain ‘magic' about that experience which can’t be replicated at any other time of year, least of all in the summer months when you’re lying in a pool of your own sweat, with the windows open, trying to get to sleep at night!! ;)
Marco (rather likes the winter months).
I think it is the combination of dark and cold that gets to me. It gets dark quite early in the tropics and I have no problems there ;) Having to dress like a polar explorer just to leave the house gets a bit wearing after a couple of weeks.
Lol - I get that, but that’s because you don’t drive, and have to walk everywhere until you pick up public transport… Even now, I’m jumping in the car with just a t-shirt and jeans on, because I know that I can turn the heating on as soon as I get in, and be all nice and toasty in minutes, whilst still feeling ‘free’ (not all ‘bumphled up’ in clothes) - then I simply put on a jacket when I get out :)
Heated seats in the car help, too! :eyebrows:
Like I said before, I hate being ‘mummified' in clothing, unless it’s absolutely necessary. Also, I’m one of those types who’s 'always warm’ (hot-blooded) and so don’t really feel the cold, but conversely *really* feels the heat and struggles to cope with it. Therefore, in many ways, I’m more comfortable in the winter months, when I’m not sweating all the time and feeling unclean and sticky.
Cold, dry weather is actually much healthier, too! One of the best experiences I’ve had was when Del and I were on our honeymoon in Austria. We got married on 22nd December (1991), so you can imagine how cold it was there……
It was minus 25 degrees at some points in the hills of Zell am Zee, but the freshness of the air, in bright sunshine, was quite something to behold (as you’re dressed in your thermals), as is the beauty of the snow-capped mountains and all the picturesque little Austrian villages illuminated in the night sky, as you trudge through the snow in the evening, on the way to a fabulous restaurant, and grab a glass of piping hot Glüwein, before tucking into a bowl of Goulash and Spätzle, washed down with one of the many superb Austrian Pils beers, served frothing inside a stein - awesome!! :barrel: :barrel:
Then, suitably sated, return to the hotel, once more inhaling the crisply fresh night air and walking along in the snow through deserted narrow streets, lit only by the glow from shop windows, where later the hotel bar awaits us, and a few shots of Schnapps before bed. We had a log fire in our room, too. Tremendous stuff!
Marco.
Well if you don't like the heat you certainly picked the right country to live in. As I say I could take the cold or the dark on their own but not both together and for so long.
I don’t like severe heat (which for me is anything above 25ºC) - humidity is the killer for me, though. Can’t stand it. I’m happiest at around 18-20ºC, with preferably a nice breeze and zero humidity!
Dark and cold doesn't bother me at all, although I do enjoy and look forward to the summer, for different reasons. The perfect country for me to live in would be Switzerland (I love everything about the place), but I’ll settle for being high up in the Tuscan hills, when we retire, as winters are like Austria and summers like, well, Italy! ;)
Marco.
By Scottish standards the last few years have been quite good weather wise. Some years up here you are dressed like that for half the year.
I think it is the combination of dark and cold that gets to me. It gets dark quite early in the tropics and I have no problems there Having to dress like a polar explorer just to leave the house gets a bit wearing after a couple of weeks.
Yes last winter was pretty mild here, too. Hopefully more of the same this year. Good so far.
By Scottish standards the last few years have been quite good weather wise. Some years up here you are dressed like that for half the year.
That temperature increase was one thing I noticed when moving From Scotland to Wales. Even when it’s sunny, during the winter in Scotland, the wind-chill factor makes it feel very cold. That’s something you don’t get down here to the same extent, and consequently it’s usually always a few degrees warmer :)
Still miss Glasgow like mad, though….!
Marco.
walpurgis
23-11-2014, 23:36
The southern end of Cornwall is the place. A proper winter frost is rare and snow is almost unheard of. If you live on The Lizard peninsula, temperatures are warmer than further inland like say Truro which is only about twelve miles away. It can be frosty and snowing there, but not at Mullion or St. Keverne on The Lizard, which seems to have its own little 'micro climate'.
Nah, if I’m going that far down south, I’d rather be in France! ;)
Marco.
The Barbarian
24-11-2014, 04:51
How many days left? Ive not even finished Painting the living Room, Not got the new carpet down yet or the new sofa delivered. All this in between work aint funny.
:rolleyes:
Lol… Then why have all that done at once, at this time of year, dude?
Marco.
Ages till Christmas, plenty of time to paint a room unless you're re-creating the Sistine Chapel.
Although given that this is Andre it wouldn't surprise me....
The Barbarian
24-11-2014, 13:20
Lol… Then why have all that done at once, at this time of year, dude?
Marco.
Not this time of year it's because ive been at it over 2 months but some people have an heavy work schedule hence not much time spare ;) we cant all sit on our backsides all day listerning to records :D
First Christmas day at home for over 15 years that's why its important to have everything perfect, not for me for the wife..
My paint work has to be factory type finish. takes time :eyebrows:
Ah, gotcha. Nice one, dude. Hope you guys have a good one! :cool:
Marco.
its a bit parky up here today. not frosty but cold and damp. I have put the fire on!
walpurgis
27-11-2014, 10:54
its a bit parky up here today. not frosty but cold and damp. I have put the fire on!
Typical for the time of year I suppose. Grey skies and soggy murk until the end of March I expect. With a few cold snaps & snow thrown in for good measure.
I wonder if after the new year we'll get a repeat of the 40 days and 40 nights of rain like the beginning of this year?
its a bit parky up here today. not frosty but cold and damp. I have put the fire on!
I thought you had your thermal tights? ;)
Marco.
naitphile
27-11-2014, 11:14
Do you live on Skye is that right?
I thought you had your thermal tights? ;)
Marco.
yeah but they are not the crotchless ones i like:lol:
Ah yes, I forgot you ruined those, during that ‘wee accident’ you had! :D
Marco.
walpurgis
27-11-2014, 12:00
alright! who blabbed?
It's on YouTube. The bit with the Vicar's dog was rather over the top though. :lol:
Gordon Steadman
27-11-2014, 12:48
There are only 27 days now. Probably fewer seconds than shown.
All my shopping is done. Train your dragon 2 DVD and the ingredients for the mince pies. More than enough. The wife doesn't need special presents - she has me:eyebrows:
There are only 27 days now. Probably fewer seconds than shown.
:
What? That's gone a bit quick hasn't it?
Xmas on my own this year, first time since 1995. At least I'll be able to watch James Bond and 'Zulu' in peace....
walpurgis
27-11-2014, 20:02
What? That's gone a bit quick hasn't it?
I suppose it has really. Next thing you know, it'll be Easter and we'll be looking forward to Wimbledon starting. :)
:doh: :nono:
:christmas: :yay:
;)
:ner:
Marco.
Audio Al
28-11-2014, 02:24
:christmas::christmas::santa::santa::santa:--- 26---:santa::santa::santa::christmas::christmas:
I'll drink to that :cool::champagne::drinking::drunk:
Audio Al
04-12-2014, 06:42
20:D
:christmas::santa::christmas:
Your arse is gonna be rife with all those sprouts!
<PHUT> <POP> <PARP>
:D
Marco.
Audio Al
04-12-2014, 12:08
Your arse is gonna be rife with all those sprouts!
<PHUT> <POP> <PARP>
:D
Marco.
Sprouts are not just for Xmas day you know :stalks:
Sprouts are not just for Xmas day you know :stalks:
They are for any part of the body.;)
Suppose I better start thinking about buying Christmas prezzies. What a pain in the arse.
Been there, done that... Not only have I had to buy Xmas pressies, but it’s Del’s birthday on 13th December, and our wedding anniversary on 22nd December, so spare a thought for moi (especially as I’m a poor boy)!
Marco.
walpurgis
04-12-2014, 19:03
Suppose I better start thinking about buying Christmas prezzies. What a pain in the arse.
I started in July.
walpurgis
04-12-2014, 19:04
Been there, done that... Not only have I had to buy Xmas pressies, but it’s Del’s birthday on 13th December, and our wedding anniversary on 22nd December, so spare a thought for moi (especially as I’m a poor boy)!
Marco.
Ah, but the rest of the year you can relax. :)
finished my odds and sods today. all wrapped, DONE and dusted.
finished my odds and sods today. all wrapped, DONE and dusted.
Have you posted all the cards as well?
Been there, done that... Not only have I had to buy Xmas pressies, but it’s Del’s birthday on 13th December, and our wedding anniversary on 22nd December, so spare a thought for moi (especially as I’m a poor boy)!
It was my girlfriend's birthday today and it will be mine on the 17th.
Poor boy? Surely you jest! :eyebrows:
Have you posted all the cards as well?
It was my girlfriend's birthday today and it will be mine on the 17th.
Poor boy? Surely you jest! :eyebrows:
Well, I have bought them, but will do that a bit later. Usually pretty late and in a panic, being prodded by her indoors, so intend to be ahead of schedule this time.
Poor boy? Surely you jest! :eyebrows:
Dire straits, old boy… I wrote off the Bentley last night, whilst landing the helicopter, the butler wants a pay rise, and we’ve run clean out of claret! How utterly frightful…
Marco.
Audio Al
15-12-2014, 06:25
:santa::santa::santa::santa::santa::santa::santa:: santa::santa:
9 sleeps left :D
Wot’s Santa bringing you then, daftee? You could do with a new multi-pack of Y-fronts, from M&S (in brown, to hide your 'follow-thrus’) :D
Marco.
Audio Al
15-12-2014, 10:51
Wot’s Santa bringing you then, daftee? You could do with a new multi-pack of Y-fronts, from M&S (in brown, to hide your 'follow-thrus’) :D
Marco.
How kind Marco , I'll PM my address :D
How kind Marco , I'll PM my address :D
DO NOT give him your addy Al, your place will be over run with sheep and men in leather chasing them.
:santa::santa::santa::santa::santa::santa::santa:: santa::santa:
9 sleeps left :D
10 isn't it?
Audio Al
22-12-2014, 11:29
3
:christmas::christmas::christmas:
Are you all exshited, daftee? Santa’s bringing you those pants we discussed :D
Marco.
Audio Al
22-12-2014, 11:53
Are you all exshited YES, daftee? YESSanta’s bringing you those pants we discussed :D YES
Marco.
:santa::santa::santa:
Dire straits, old boy… I wrote off the Bentley last night, whilst landing the helicopter, the butler wants a pay rise, and we’ve run clean out of claret! How utterly frightful…
Marco.
As long as there is some Port left all is good yes? :lol:
2 1/2 days left and i have even got my shopping in like, so, :lol: no more to do and that no.
2 1/2 days left and i have even got my shopping in like, so, :lol: no more to do and that no.
You do your own shopping? What's it like? :lol::lol:
You do your own shopping? What's it like? :lol::lol:
I wouldn't know: I get my man (who's called Amazon) to do it all for me.
You do your own shopping? What's it like? :lol::lol:
Its great. you meet lots of nice pretty chicks who all try to help me.;)
Did an hours shopping yesterday then three hours in the pub :)
As long as there is some Port left all is good yes? :lol:
Indeed, my good man… Just quaffing some of this now (after decanting), along with some rather fine mature stilton, accompanied by spelt & fig artisan crispbread (sadly, though, only the 1985 vintage):
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/540/BYW1ON.jpg
:cheers:
Marco.
Was out to Morriso!s earlier b4 it busied up and grabbed a bottle of Aberlour 10year old and a case of Tennents lager to last me over the festive period. actually i usually drink less at this time for some reason....think it must be lent:lol:
Gordon Steadman
23-12-2014, 14:45
We have just had the first of our two Christmas dinners:) Turkey - all moist and yummy. Roast spuds and parsnips - all brown and crunchy. Sprouts - slow cooked to a slight aldentiness.
Gluten free mince pies and cream.
All washed down with some cheap plonk from the supermarket:eyebrows:
Roll on number 2 (no cheap jokes about No 2s please Marco)
Was out to Morriso!s earlier b4 it busied up and grabbed a bottle of Aberlour 10year old and a case of Tennents lager...
Tennents lager? Boak… I thought you had class! :eyebrows:
Marco.
:D I like Tennents and guests usually pass and drink their own:ner:
We have just had the first of our two Christmas dinners... Turkey - all moist and yummy. Roast spuds and parsnips - all brown and crunchy. Sprouts - slow cooked to a slight aldentiness.
Gluten free mince pies and cream.
All washed down with some cheap plonk from the supermarket
Roll on number 2 (no cheap jokes about No 2s please Marco)
Wot, moi? As if I would lower the tone with such scatological humour! :nono: :lol:
Yer lunch sounds good, though.
On Christmas day, we’ll be having Gravadlax of salmon with ribbons of pickled cucumber and home-made bread rolls, to start, followed by a mid-course of classic consommé (accompanied with a small glass of Amontillado sherry), and then (local) roast goose in a rich game and port wine jus, with all the usual trimmings. Dessert will be a Christmastime classic, from my home area of Tuscany, Zuccotto:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/537/67fUkb.jpg
http://www.marthastewart.com/338959/zuccotto
I can list the aperitifs and wines if you’re interested.
Marco.
Gordon Steadman
23-12-2014, 15:11
I used to be friends with an Italian family and regularly spent Christmas with them.
Finally, after twenty years, I think I'm recovering nicely.:)
Wot, moi? As if I would lower the tone with such scatological humour! :nono: :lol:
Yer lunch sounds good, though.
On Christmas day, we’ll be having Gravadlax of salmon with ribbons of pickled cucumber and home-made bread rolls, to start, followed by a mid-course of classic consommé (accompanied with a small glass of Amontillado sherry), and then (local) roast goose in a rich game and port wine jus, with all the usual trimmings. Dessert will be a Christmastime classic, from my home area of Tuscany, Zuccotto:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/537/67fUkb.jpg
http://www.marthastewart.com/338959/zuccotto
I can list the aperitifs and wines if you’re interested.
Marco.
I'll need to work on my Italian so i can get at all that lovely grub
Finally, after twenty years, I think I'm recovering nicely.:)
Lol - I know exactly where you’re coming from! I went to a Christening party in Italy, when I was a teenager. The meal started at 12 noon, and about 25 courses later, finished at 7pm! :eyebrows:
Marco.
I once had A xmas tortollini soup in an italian restaraunt which was so good i tried making it myself the next year.. it was not bad considering i guessed a bit about what was all in it.... you dont have recipe for that per chance Marco?
Should do… I’ll ask the boss! ;)
Marco.
Should do… I’ll ask the boss! ;)
Marco.
good ho mate... like authentic italian food recipes as long as there aint any anchovies in
Nice one. I asked Del, and she said she just does it from her head (without a recipe as such), so difficult to tell you exactly what to do. However, I Googled around and found this recipe, which is authentic and pretty much the way we do it - be prepared for some work, though! ;)
http://www.italianbellavita.com/2011/11/tortellini-in-brodo-tortellini-in-broth/
Marco.
thanks.....ive bookmarked it... sure i will adapt it a bit to reduce the 2days work to 2 hrs but it will be close.
Audio Al
23-12-2014, 18:18
Marco
The first image of the Dessert looks very appealing :eyebrows:
.
.
.
.
.
However the second image looks like a seagull flypast :eek:
Which second image are you referring to?
Marco.
Audio Al
23-12-2014, 18:29
Which second image are you referring to?
Marco.
The one with desert on it side and the runny cream ;)
Lol - you don’t need to serve it that way. Personally, I think the poured cream is a bit OTT…
Enjoy with a nice glass of Passito di Pantelleria (one of the most superb dessert wines money can buy): http://www.passionitalyfood.com/wines/passito-di-pantelleria
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/540/Wm9YIM.jpg
Marco.
well thats my special sausagemeat stuffing made...time to do the secret oatmeal stuffing now. yum!!
So here it is, Merry Christmas. Just got off work 4 hours early - woo hoo!
Don't; need to get booze in as the offy is open Xmas day. Thank God for the heathens...not so sure what Xmas dinner will comprise, think I've got some oatcakes in....
In your position, I’d be going out for me lunch. Hope you have a nice one, mate, anyway! :cool:
Marco.
Btw, you know how you like the Carribean and I mentioned that Del’s cousin owns a few properties in St Lucia? Well, here’s her website:
http://www.marigothill.com/en/content.php?selRubrikID=4
You can browse through the various properties and have a good look. If anything takes your fancy, I can defo get you an excellent deal! :)
I could see you here: http://www.marigothill.com/en/content.php?selRubrikID=38 or here: http://www.marigothill.com/en/content.php?selRubrikID=40
;)
Marco.
Looks fabulous Marco. I'm off to Antigua in February, bit more convenient than St Lucia as you can fly there out of Manchester instead of having to trek down to Gatwick.
Good point! However, if you do fancy St Lucia sometime, let me know. Enjoy Antigua, when it comes :)
Marco.
RobbieGong
24-12-2014, 23:21
Btw, you know how you like the Carribean and I mentioned that Del’s cousin owns a few properties in St Lucia? Well, here’s her website:
http://www.marigothill.com/en/content.php?selRubrikID=4
You can browse through the various properties and have a good look. If anything takes your fancy, I can defo get you an excellent deal! :)
I could see you here: http://www.marigothill.com/en/content.php?selRubrikID=38 or here: http://www.marigothill.com/en/content.php?selRubrikID=40
;)
Marco.
Had our honeymoon in St Lucia some years ago - Lovely place ! :)
Audio Al
25-12-2014, 04:10
0
:champagne::mex::champagne:
:carrot::carrot::carrot::carrot::carrot::carrot:
:christmas::christmas::christmas::santa::santa::sa nta::christmas::christmas::christmas:
HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE
brian2957
25-12-2014, 04:30
Happy Christmas matey :santa::christmas::santa:
Firebottle
25-12-2014, 07:51
Thanks, and a Joyeux Noel to all from me.
:D Alan
Audio Al
26-12-2014, 00:10
-1
:D
You starting a countdown now until next Christmas? :eyebrows:
Marco.
Audio Al
26-12-2014, 11:02
-2
Who me ;)
-2
Who me ;)
Still -1 isn't it? :)
Audio Al
26-12-2014, 11:13
Still -1 isn't it? :)
My maffs not good along wif my speeling :D
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