This is always a special time of the year and I hope our supporters are feeling more optimistic after we managed to secure seven points last week, which took us clear of the bottom three and has us heading in the right direction.
Slaven has been honest enough to admit the performances have not been to our normal standards in the last two home games, but the most important thing was getting two wins and we managed to do that.
We are in a much better place and we can now play with a bit more freedom. I am still very optimistic about the second half of the season and getting more points on the board.
I was delighted to see Andy Carroll back in action and it was great to see him start the last two home games against Burnley and Hull.
We all know Andy's character and the commitment he shows when he is back in the team.
He wants to play every game and the key factor is now keeping him fit and getting a regular run in the team.
Andy has a significant impact on the team and he can make a big difference.
I remember his memorable strike against Swansea back in January 2015 and we would love to see him repeat that strike and get back among the goals on Boxing Day.
Swansea are fighting for their lives in the bottom three and we know it is going to be another tough game.
But if we can play to our best and maintain the form we showed in our last away game at Liverpool, we stand every chance of getting another good result.
We want to go on a winning streak and if we can carry on winning games it will lift everyone at the football club.
The next two games against Swansea and Leicester are very important as we want to get into the top half of the table.
We are having a bit of luck at the moment and let's hope that continues.
Slaven will have to make a change for the game on Monday as Pedro Obiang is suspended.
Pedro has been fantastic since he came back into the side and has made that position his own.
He has been flawless in his performances and we will miss him on Monday. It will be interesting to see what Slaven does with the team and it will give another player the chance to show what he can do.
It is obviously a big blow for the Club that Diafra Sakho will now miss a considerable part of the season after he was forced to undergo back surgery.
It is a disappointment for the player and everyone connected with the Club. We wish him well and hope he can make a speedy recovery.
He is an important player for us and we want him back scoring goals.
The January transfer window is just around the corner and if the opportunity arises we will be doing everything we can to bring in new players.
We are not going to be shy in strengthening the squad if the right player becomes available.
Have a Merry Christmas and for those travelling to Swansea on Boxing Day, I wish everyone a safe journey.