Many years ago, on Shrove Tuesday, I wrote this: “Today is pancake Tuesday and so we are eating pancakes for dinner, much to the children’s delight. When told that tomorrow is Lent and they are supposed to give something up, Jane quickly announced she would give up light bulbs. Charles’s choice was mineral water. Alex was more cautious.After some deliberation he decided to give up spinach. Greg offered to give up work. I think I’ll just give up.