Thought For The Day - Bloody Christmas, here again, let us raise a loving cup, peace on earth, goodwill to men, and make them do the washing up. - Wendy Cope

One of the things I really like about cruising is the opportunity to interact with people from all over the world. Last night, for example, we celebrated Christmas in the true French style over a 5-hour Christmas dinner that was not to be believed.

The four couples present were treated to a menu of crackers and cheddar or smoked meats, foie gras and bread, lobster bisque, roast lamb and skillet potatoes, and an amazing nameless frozen Dutch dessert. All accompanied by French champagne and red wine. Yes, we were aboard a lovely monohull sailboat.

The couples consisted of a Frenchman and his American wife, an American and his French wife, a Dutch couple and us, the Americans. What we have in common is a love of traveling and living on boats. A truly exceptional Christmas Eve.

Today we are celebrating once again with our Dutch friends. I am cooking a small turkey with all the trimmings so we will feast again. Merry Christmas to one and all!