It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Peace on earth and good will to all men… or so you would think.
As we all get into the spirit of Christmas, let’s take a few moments to reflect upon a game I played in yesterday. Picture the scene. All ready and raring to go for the last match of the local league for my club in 2018. You’ve heard me mention a few times ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,’ not quite sure how I survived the full 60 minutes though. Battered like a vessel on a rocky sea; my bruises are a clear indication of the ‘non-contact’ sport I know and love. Maybe I’m old fashioned, but I like a good clean game of netball which challenges both the mind and the body. However, this team were with ‘the new contested times.’ Pushing, shoving, swearing and holding to win the ball at all costs. To be honest, I left the court with my dignity still in tact and my head held high. So any youngsters out there, remember use your skill and power in a competitive and channelled way. Don’t be that player that causes others discomfort and general misery!
So folks, it’s nearly Christmas and with only a week to go, here are my top tips for surviving the festivities:
Tip 1 – Don’t leave everything until the last minute. I don’t think Mum appreciated the banana tree holder last year!
Tip 2 – Don’t open the Quality Street too soon. You run the risk of, (A). Eating until you’re sick or (B). having only the rank coconut ones left on Christmas Eve.
Tip 3 – Always check your tree size before you buy it… releasing from a net once home can cause injury and distress and quite frankly take over your lounge.
Tip 4 – DON’T DRESS UP YOUR PETS! Dogs resembling reindeer, penguins or snowmen are cute for half an hour but little do you know, they are seriously overheating and can lose 5lbs in one evening.
Tip 5 – remember to extend the hand of kindness to your neighbours, even if they have 6ft inflatables and multicoloured choo-choo trains on their porch in your eye-line.
So, going back to where I started, a bad game will not mean a bad Christmas. I still intend to be me, the netballer I have become and still like. Have a good one; see you before 2018 ends.
The 7ft tree who nearly killed my father… what do you mean it’s too big!
A dog is for life, not just for Christmas