We always have presents, but also put some presents under a Christmas tree at the ABC or a local shopping centre for others in need.

Years ago we used to make up a laundy basket full of goodies and take it to the closest charity place. One year we actually delivered it to the persons themselves, which felt a bit strange really. I guess a faceless person is far less confronting than the real flesh and blood person.

Another way of giivng is to volunteeer your time on Christmas day to deliver Meals on wheels. The one in Bendigo is (was, not sure as we haven’t done it for a while) usually looking for help. You would need to register your interest early.

The time we did it our kids were very young and it was a heart warming but also VERY sad experience for us all. There was en ecclectic mix of people who were alone, or were banding together to share their meals for the day.

Candy Cane and Chocolate Pieces.

One thing I like to make if I am short on time is this easy recipe for sweet toothes.

You will need one box or packet of candy canes, any flavour you like but our favourite is the traditional peppermint.

About 150 gm of chocolate, once again any type you like. You can use the cheapest cooking chocolate from the baking aisle and still get a good treat.

Put the candy canes into a sturdy plastic bag and seal. Place this onto a chopping board and using a rolling pin bang away at this until the canes are well crushed. Kids love doing this.

Break up the chocolate roughly and place into a glass bowl. Place the bowl on top of a saucepan (make sure the bowl will sit neatly on top) of simmering water and melt the chocolate, stirring with a wooden spoon. Ensure you do not get any moisture into the chocolate or you will spoil it.

On an oven tray lay out a piece of baking paper about 30 cms square.

Using oven gloves carefully bring over the melted chocolate and pour it over the baking paper, spreading it evenly out with a plastic spatula.

Sprinkle the candy canes mix over the chocolate and gently mix it in.

Pop into the fridge until set, it only takes about 10 minutes.

Break up the mix into pieces and store in an airtight container.

You can also use this as a simple Christmas gift, simply place pieces into the centre of pieces of clear cellophane and tie with a red or green ribbon. Store out of ants’ way though!

I know this sounds obvious but one year when my son was little he brought home a gift made from school, As it was a great secret, we weren’t allowed to see what it was. He was quite traumatised when come Christmas morning he found that the ants had discovered his carefully cooked short bread and ruined it!

I am looking forward to it too. Do you think the hype that it is not finished is a reality or a good publicity stunt?

I love the way Tom Pretofsky (no idea if that is how he spells it) takes the mickey out of himself on ROVE every Sunday.
There is probably a very keen underlying message there!

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