EDITOR’S LETTER
Ithink it’s safe to say that this Christmas is shaping up to be a rather different festive season at the end of an extraordinary year. As we go to press, it’s uncertain just how many friends and family we’ll be allowed to see, and it seems almost inevitable that any bigger group gatherings are going to have to be postponed well into 2021. But that definitely does not mean that we can’t make it really special! In fact, after the challenges of 2020, it feels like we really need to try to make it special – for those we care about and for ourselves. I think we all deserve some light and some moments of pleasure, don’t you? As our cover star Nigella Lawson says: ‘We might not be able to get together in big groups, but I feel a sense that it really has to count.’
Nigella opens up and tells us about how this year has been for her and, as someone who has experienced terrible loss during her life, how she has learned to live in the present and feel gratitude. Nigella will be spending Christmas with her son and daughter and reveals what their day is likely to hold (page 10).
We also have some scrumptious sweet treats from Nigella for you to try (page 196), plus scores of delicious festive recipes from our GH cookery team (page 161), whom I’m sure you’ll agree, have excelled themselves. Whether you’re an experienced festive host or it’s your first Christmas in the kitchen, there are plenty of options!
Those of you who are regular readers will remember that during the summer, we asked you to tell us about those who you felt deserved to be recognised as National Treasures – people who have gone above and beyond during the pandemic to help others. Now I’m delighted to unveil the 20 Good Housekeeping National Treasures winners (page 18). I hope you enjoy reading all about them and will join me in applauding these incredible heroes.
While creating this issue, we have kept you at the front of our minds and in our hearts in the hope it brings you all the inspiration you need for the times we’re living in. Whatever your plans are for this Christmas, my team and I would like to send you our warmest wishes.