Although I was born in the northern hemisphere, summer and Christmas have become indelibly linked for me now. Festive meals in the garden and in years gone by, our children rushing in and out of the paddling pool.

Yet still I carry with me the sense of cold and occasional snow. The early dark, the twinkly lights, log fires and cosy rooms. I don't struggle with these opposites, I just love this time.

I love that my dearest friend's possible bad news has turned out to be nothing after all. I love this time of human warmth and connection. And I love my faith. and the hope that it brings.