Sunday 16 December 2012

Christmas Shorts with... Henriette Gyland

My Christmas Shorts guest today is Henriette Gyland whose debut book Up Close was published earlier this month.  My review of Up Close will be on the blog later today so make sure you pop back to check it out.

What is your earliest Christmas memory? 
I'm originally from Denmark, and traditionally we sing and dance around the tree on Christmas Eve before opening our presents in turn.  I was tearing roughly at a present when the whole family began to sing a verse from a traditional Christmas song.  In English this verse would roughly translate as "Pulling at the ribbon you're strang-e-lin' a lil-un'". That's how I knew I was getting a doll!
 
 What is your favourite Christmas tradition?
Every other year we celebrate Christmas in Denmark with my parents, and when my father puts the "Christmas Oratorio" by J S Bach on the CD player, it sets the mood, and all the stress leading up to the big day just floats away.

What is or was the best book-related Christmas gift that you’ve received?
A boxed set of Stephanie Plum novels by Janet Evanovich.  She's such a funny writer - it doesn't matter what my mood is, her books always change it for the better.

What is your favourite Christmas book?
"Miracle & Other Christmas Stories", a collection of short stories by the American Sci-Fi author Connie Willis.  This is an author who loves everything about Christmas, and it shines through on every page.

What is your favourite Christmas film? 
"Home Alone" with Macauley Culkin.  We watch it every year. 

 What is your favourite Christmas song?
"So this is Christmas" by John Lennon


If you could spend Christmas anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Northern Denmark where my parents live.  Apart from the joy of being "Home", there's a greater chance of snow.  I love snow! 

What are you looking forward to most this Christmas?
Some R & R.  I seriously need it!

Will you be making a New Years resolution?
Yep. I'll be making a long list which (will then promptly disappear under a pile of papers).

Who would you like to kiss under the mistletoe?
Viggo Mortenson (but don't tell him, okay) 

What one thing would you like to receive in your stocking?
Some Lavender-scented foot cream.

Finally a few quick fire questions to finish

Christmas at Home or Away? At home.  Thankfully
Mulled Wine or Winter Pimms? Mulled Wine. Yum!
Sprouts... delicious or evil? Delicious, if taken in small quantities....
Yule Log or Mince Pie? Mince Pie
A Christmas Carol or Hogfather? A Christmas Carol
Miracle on 34th Street or It’s a Wonderful Life? Miracle, but I prefer the re-make with Richard Attenborough.  He makes a great Santa Claus.

If you'd like to find out more about Henriette and her books, head over to her website, or why not connect with her on Facebook or Twitter where she'd love to hear from you.   

7 comments:

  1. Ah, lovely post, ladies. Your Danish Christmas sounds wonderful, Henri. I love Christmas and all that goes with it. Best of luck with 'Up Close' It's on my list to read, and I can't wait. :) xx

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  2. I approve all your choices, Henri!

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  3. I like your choice for under the mistletoe, Henri, but only if he's dressed as Aragorn :) Happy Christmas!

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  4. Thanks for sharing your Christmas delights with us, ladies.

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  5. Jan - My parents have managed to keep Christmas magical, first for us when we were children, and now for their grandchildren. But snow really creates a very special atmosphere.

    Lesley & Christina - Thanks. it looks like I may have to fight both of your for dear VM! I don't mind what he's dressed as. In fact... oh, no, let's keep this clean ;-)
    Hx

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  6. You're welcome, Sherry. Glad you enjoyed the post.
    Hx

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  7. Lovely blog, Henri!! I'm a huge Stephanie Plum fan too!

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