‘We’ll be busy with two birthdays to celebrate’
Claire McCollum (43) is a TV and radio presenter. She lives in Greenisland with husband Alastair and their children, Samuel (11) and Rosa (9). She says:
Christmas can be a wonderfully busy time of year in our house because both of our children were born at Christmas — on December 27 and 29. For the first time in ages they’re having a joint party this year today, and that will really kick off all of the celebrations.
They both get on so well and it really does kill two birds with one stone. Then on Christmas Eve we have neighbours and friends over for drinks. Everyone is coming to us on Christmas Day — my sister, her family and my mum and dad. The turkey is ordered, mum is doing her amazing stuffing, I’ve ordered the fruit and veg from a local shop and my sister will bring the Christmas pudding.
Because it’s just family it’s all very relaxed — we can stay in our slippers all day if we want.
Then on Boxing Day we’ll go to Ali’s parents’ house to see that side of the family.
The big thing this year is that on the 28th — in between the two birthdays — we’ll be getting a dog. A little miniature Schnauzer.
Every day is accounted for over Christmas so New Year’s Eve will be very quiet, with just the four of us. I love the whole season.
The build-up and finally getting to Christmas Eve knowing that you’ve ticked as many festive boxes as you possibly can.
Having family and friends together is just lovely and the kids are so excited about it.
I’m not very fussed about presents, though — there’s nothing I really need and I prefer to make sure everyone else is sorted with their gifts.
This year Ali and I have promised ourselves a shopping day in January — a day out with just the two of us.