January is often seen as a quiet month with long, dark nights and grey days in contrast to all the hype that has become part and parcel of preparing for Christmas—buying presents, sending cards, decorating homes and trees, having parties and outings—followed in quick succession by the boxing day sales and new year celebrations.I love Christmas and I love all the business and activities that are part of it, but I also enjoy this time when I can change down a gear; it provides an opportunity to recharge the batteries and focus on the year ahead.