What a heartwarming article by Miranda May, who was grieving the loss of both parents at Christmas (A moment that changed me: A year after losing my parents, I spent Christmas Day cycling around London alone, 18 December). Her decision to cycle around London alone on Christmas Day became a joyful time for her – she met so many good and interesting people. Christmas is not only a time of celebration but also one of deep sadness for those who’ve lost a loved one. The happy rejoicing and carols can make this time of year difficult. Miranda has given hope and solace to all those who are grieving.
Lorraine Haldane
Hove, East Sussex
• If you are thinking of relocating, you might like to walk round the area in the run-up to Christmas to avoid moving in opposite a house decorated with elaborate flashing lights. Or, if you are the person who puts up elaborate flashing lights, any future neighbours might like to be forewarned.
Valerie Gidlow
Faversham, Kent
• Re jelly and evaporated milk (Letters, 22 December), my mother would have been pleased for a renaissance of her standby pudding: whipped evaporated milk combined with jelly, then set to create a poor man’s mousse.
Elaine Joyce
Godalming, Surrey
• My sister regularly eats mashed banana and evaporated milk as “pudding”, and has been known to eat condensed milk from the tube. A legacy of boarding school?
Melanie Hewitt
London
• Let it be noted that my local Co-op’s seasonal aisle already has two shelving units of Easter eggs.
Kate Rimmer
Nottingham
• Have an opinion on anything you’ve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section.