This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
Jenny Colgan, author of Christmas at Rosie Hopkins’ Sweetshop, is a self-confessed Christmas-o-phile. Here, she recalls some of her very favourite festive memories.
What is your favourite Christmas memory?
Every year my father would lead us downstairs and go into the sitting room first to light the fire and every year he’d come running out again shouting “Quick! Quick! I saw him! He’s just here! I think his boots are disappearing up the chimney” and we’d charge into the room convinced we might catch a glimpse of Santa. Also, my mum would buy cheap crackers and then her and I would carefully unwrap them and put nice presents inside, like lipsticks or pop guns then wrap them up again.
What festive traditions do you most enjoy?
I love all of them. Writing the cards, making the cake, the carols, choosing gifts, mulled wine, mince pies, advent calendars – I love it all. I’m a total Christmas-o-phile.
What is Christmas Day like for your family?
We’ve moved around a lot so have had Christmases in New Zealand, Scotland, London and France. Normally in France the weather is nice and we cook a whole pig on the outdoor oven and sit outside with friends. One year in London, we went to a restaurant and I know you’re not meant to say this but we had a GREAT time, and came back to a lovely, tidy house!
Is there a particular gift that you’re secretly hoping Santa will bring you this year?
I would like a great big, long winter book to lose myself in in front of the fire please!
Thanks, Jenny. Merry Christmas!