How do you normally celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?
The tradition in my family is to open presents first thing on Christmas Day and have a traditional family Christmas lunch of turkey and trimmings. Growing up, we used to watch Her Majesty’s Christmas address live on TV, but nowadays we view the recording due to the time difference.
As governor, are you able to take some well-earned rest over the Christmas holidays?
Yes, I certainly try to do so. It tends to be a quieter period although last year the case of Skylar Mack (who breached COVID-19 quarantine protocols) was ongoing. Taking calls from President Trump’s national security adviser at the White House on Christmas Eve was not what I planned.
What are the Christmas traditions in the Cayman Islands that you have come to enjoy since taking up your role a few years ago?
I enjoy the Chamber of Commerce Christmas tree event, seeing all the Christmas lights people put up in their gardens, and the Rotary Boxing Day event for seniors.
How does celebrating Christmas in Cayman compare to some of the other places in the world where you have been posted previously?
The weather is wonderful, and I couldn’t think of anywhere better than Cayman.
Remembering your childhood, what are your earliest memories of Christmas?
I remember searching the house for presents when my mum and dad were out. The presents were usually not very well hidden in a wardrobe. My mother was very organised, so they were already wrapped, and I didn’t know what was inside until Christmas Day.
Name your favourite festive food.
Pigs in blankets washed down with a glass of sorrel. I also love Brussels sprouts. Lissie (the governor’s wife) doesn’t like sprouts, so the deal is I can have them only on Christmas Day.
And your favourite Christmas carol?
Silent Night.
What is the most meaningful part of Christmas for you, personally?
I find it is the one point in the year when time seems to stop for a short moment. It is a good time for reflection on the previous year, the year to come and to appreciate family.
Looking ahead to New Year, do you have any particular resolutions for 2022?
Not yet, but I will reflect over the Christmas break. It (2022) is likely to be our last full year in Cayman, so we want to continue to get out and about and support the community as much as we can. I may dust off my steel pans for a final performance or two.
What is your Christmas wish for the people of the Cayman Islands?
Cayman has done incredibly well managing the pandemic. We are a resilient and resourceful community. I am confident and optimistic for the future of these islands.
We are enjoying spending time with such a wonderful community. I wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year, and hope that they enjoy a lovely time with family and friends.
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