Poinsettia, the Star of Bethlehem

Senior correspondent Carrie Cole called me while I was at the hairdresser’s today, having my hair cut after camouflaging my scarce grey hair. All this trouble to look at least a couple of years younger and smarter in view of my crossing the Channel on Friday... No, it’s not at all my eldest sister I have to make an impact on, it’s first of all on myself and then on my brother-in-law’s twin brother. I am meeting him for the very first time in the English countryside where we will be Christmas holidaying altogether.

Carrie Cole joined me at the salon de coiffure and off we went for a walk downtown, as soon as my brushing was done and over with. She kindly offered me the last ‘business lunch’ of the year. As expected, we spent most of it enjoying our meal whilst talking about men and therapy shopping, in other words, anything but MKWM matters.

We enhanced our joyous spirit by lighting a candle in Saint Nicolas church in rue au Beurre Boule et Bill. I am kidding you not; it is indeed the twofold name of the street leading to the Grand’ Place. I only noticed it today and will have to investigate further before giving you any feedback. This church was worth the visit but astonishingly, there wasn’t any newborn to be seen between Mary, Joseph and the gang, which made me think he might have been kidnapped or about to be delivered. Deplorable and simply beyond belief.... I guess I will also have to enquire about the missing infant in the crib as of Monday.

Moreover, I had to see for myself whether what I’d been told concerning this year’s festive decoration on the Grote Markt was accurate. I felt cheerless looking at a Christmas tree that reminded me more of a weeping willow banged by a flock of reindeers. Don’t ask me about the ‘sounds & lights’ show that wasn’t on at the time, I doubt it would have fascinated me, anyway.

We had to pass by le Gisant, also known as Everhard ‘t Serclaes, a hero of the 14th century who died in Brussels, the city he had fought for. As usual, we rubbed the naked Knight all over, as tourists do, making a wish that has to be kept secret. Some say it brings luck, or love according to others. Whatever... I need both and come to think of it, I forgot to make a wish. Never mind though, I was given a poinsettia yesterday, a Christmas Star, a gift that filled me with joy and happiness. I pass it on to you All.