That time of year again.

Many in America refer to this time of year as "The holidays", presumably to be politically correct.  In my considered view, and taking into account all the rational pros and cons, political correctness is a load of horse shit!  Let's get a couple of things straight.  First the Jewish celebration, then the Christian:

The forces of the King of Syria desecrated the temple in Jerusalem and attempted to force the Jews to worship their god, this led to the revolt of the Maccabees. On retaking the temple it was discovered that there was just enough olive oil to light the menorah for one day. After lighting the menorah the lamps stayed ...lit for eight days - just enough time to press more olives and replace the oil. This resulted in 'the festival of lights' also known as 'Hanukkah'. Around the same time of year Christians celebrate the coming of light in the world, the coming of Jesus Christ and this is known as Christmas. It is not, 'The Holidays'. Happy Hanukkah to our Jewish brothers and sisters and happy Christmas to all Christians.




Kwanza, the festival of African heritage, is celebrated this time of year also, so happy Kwanza to all those of African descent.

Bugger 'Happy Holidays!' let's just call a spade a spade and refer to the time of year for the festival it is.  A festival of light, whether Jewish, Christian of African.  Soon we'll be seeing more daylight in our days, (Midwinter is around  the 21st December) and we can start thinking, an planning for spring and summer.

While I'm in such a positive mood, I should say that I visited the hospital this morning and it appears that I tested negative for TB.  Not exacly a surprise, but it's now been ruled out and it's one less worry.

For those unfamiliar with Spike Milligan, the following sketch may enlighten you:

Put him in the curry

Good luck to those who survive this one!  To those who do not, tough.

Hitler sings...

And this concludes our introduction to my hero!
Spike Milligan - if you didn't grap that one.