Raw Xmas

NEW ARTICLE!

1. Please set the scene as to where you'll be this Christmas and who you'll be with.   
My family: sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. Christingle service here in Ludlow with friends’ kids, then I'll drive to Cheshire Christmas morning, through probably snowy hills, for the usual mid-afternoon "lunch". I'll try to get them out for a walk first as they won't fancy it later, unless it's a clear, starry night. Family jigsaw and games, and as little TV as possible!

2. What's likely to be on the Christmas menu this year for you personally and for those around you?  
Whatever they're eating will be supplemented by a big leafy salad and an avocado antipasto which I'll put together in the morning and take in a coolbag. I'll also take a big box of mixed dehydrator crackers – probably spicy flax crackers and my personal favourite, pumpkin seed thins. Some sweeter ones too, probably honeyed carob almond drops. Plus a big container of prepared veggies to make a fresh potassium broth (everyone needs something alkaline in the winter, and most people really need something warm too), a second coolbag full of fresh leafy greens from my garden, and the last few russet apples from my small tree. The last thing to go in the car will be a tray of fully grown baby sunflowers. Sounds a lot? Yes, but the mystery is that all these turkey and stuffing connoisseurs will keep eating my stuff!

3. What are your tips for spending a hassle-free Christmas with people whose food choices are different? 
Just take plenty of raw stuff and set your juicer up in a corner where it won't hassle the chef. Don't let people think they have to cater for you - take treats to share. Enjoy the company and the games and don't get into confrontations about food! Hard I know because people can feel very threatened, but a soft answer and the offer of a sweet treat go a long way.

4. What's made 2009 a great year for you?  
Experiencing comradeship and mutual support amongst colleagues and friends.

5. Any words of wisdom to share with our readers? 
Watch your immune system. We are all increasingly under pressures of all kinds, so keep a check and if you feel tired, don't rationalize or make excuses. Find out why!