In the best "A Christmas Story" tradition, we started going to a local Chinese restaurant for Christmas eve dinner, pretty much the only restaurant open that night in our small college town. "Charlie" brings out his single-stringed Chinese instrument and plays Christmas carols on it, and sometimes his granddaughter sings along with it. Everyone is very fond of "Charlie Two-shoes" who has a special relationship with a Marine battalion and who recently received US citizenship amid much fanfare. So there's a special warmth in being there with others of the town who appreciate the man, his spirit, and his food. We are travelling this year and won't be there -- will miss it.

Christmas dinner at our house (in London) consists of Turkey Roast Potatoes, Roast Parsnips, cauliflower cheese, Chestnut stuffing, sausage meat stuffing, cranberry sauce, bread sauce and something that is affectionately known as 'little boys'. They are little chipolata sausages wrapped in bacon and then roasted in the same tray as the turkey and potatoes. MMMmmmmmm....<BR>The most important xmas tradition however, is the 2 hrs in the pub while the turkey's cooking, followed by the red wine and post dinner brandy. I always have a very enjoyable sleep on the sofa after that!

Gene, you must live in Chapel Hill. That is one of our favorite area restaurants. Nice story about Charlie. Too bad I am generally never in town on Christmas eve.

We go out for Chinese food on Christmas Eve, too (also inspired by "A Christmas Story") but this year my parents are visiting for Christmas Eve and I don't think my Dad will go for that. We are making a turkey instead.

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