THE (FESTIVE) ROUND UP
We asked some contributors and friends of rogue to tell us what they’re most looking forward to about Christmas
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Esther O’Moore Donohoe, podcaster and journalist
I spent last Christmas Day on my own (*a tiny violin plays, a single tear falls) as I had Covid. This year I’m looking forward to spending the day with my family, strategically ‘falling asleep’ when movements are made to fill the dishwasher and then ‘waking’ again at the sound of someone picking up a packet of Tayto and batch loaf. It’s the most wonderful time.
Holly White, author and wellness influencer
Good food, good company, a great book and some time to myself are what I’m looking forward to. When I think of what truly makes me happy all of the above tick the boxes so hopefully they’ll be on the agenda.
Pat Kane, owner of Reuzi
I am feeling exhausted and there are still two weeks til Christmas. Just possibly, I set too high standards for myself in terms of what I have to do before the big day. Think wrapping up projects for clients plus endless speaking engagements and social events… not to mention that, on the home front, I am doing my absolute best to ensure that the boys have a memorable experience. Ps: Can someone tell me who created the Elf on the Shelf? I’d like to chat… So, this Christmas, I am definitely looking forward to spending quality time with my family and nothing else. I am looking forward to doing nothing: nowhere to be, no one to meet, nothing to do… nada. I’ve had the busiest year yet and I am so grateful for all that has happened but I can safely say that it’s now time to rest.
Lia Hynes, rogue founder and journalist
This is possibly mundane, but my eight year old has recently begun to enjoy TV I can also appreciate(ie not cartoons or Disney movies I’ve seen five million times already?, we’ve taken to having tv nights, lighting a fire, loads of snacks, so I’m really looking forward to watching loads of modern family with her; seeing someone enjoy Phil Dunphy for the first time is truly a joy.
Fiadh Melina, writer
It is the first year in quite some time that I’ll be home with family for Christmas, and it’s the first where my daughter is experiencing Santa with full awareness. So far, I’ve been reliving the excitement and wonder through her sighting (and exclaiming ‘Christmas’ each time) wreaths on doors, or fairy lights on streetsides and bin trucks. It has become a magical time again, and I’m looking forward to gathering round on Christmas Morning to see her tear through wrapping paper and undoubtedly pick out the most unexpected of the gifts to fixate on. I will also be grateful for the moments of quiet I can disappear into, while the little one plays with her grandparents, and hopefully refuel some creative juices which have been lacking during the college term.
Aisling Keenan, rogue founder, podcaster and journalist
I’m looking forward to my mother’s Christmas dinner. The woman is a spectacular cook, and I’ve no idea how she manages the culinary feat that happens in her house on Christmas day, but it’s always amazing. There are starters (salmon! Salads! Brown bread! Prawns!) there are dreamy sides (croquettes! Roasters! Carrot and parsnip mash with maple syrup!) and there are several kinds of meat, somehow all cooked to perfection. Dessert is a pavlova by my sister, as well as anything else whipped up in the house over the festive period. Christmas dinner at my parents house is a reminder of how lucky I am to have a warm and safe place to spend the day, surrounded by my family who all have their health. A thing to be grateful for for sure.
Senator Lynn Ruane
Over Christmas I’m looking forward to reading and writing, and drinking hot whiskeys while having nowhere to go other than the sofa. Christmas has always been one of my favourite times of year. Mostly just for long days, and my Ma’s beautiful Christmas tree.
