We've been away for a night; Fiona had another Christmas do in a posh hotel and I would've been home alone so went along for the luxury. Whittlebury Hall near Silverstone. I do like these away-days where I can relax and recuperate in the luxury of a hotel room without having to worry about what to wear and being nice to people.

It was our work Christmas do tonight, too, but didn't feel up to going; it sounded like it was going to be a good one - and they invariably are - but it would have been too much too soon unfortunately. Rang Joanne to wish her 'happy party' and to pass on good vibes to all. Will catch up on party gossip next week...........

From Whittlebury we popped across to Enfield to deliver Amy's and Beth's birthday and Christmas presents, see their house for the first time since they moved in and catch up with Bertie Boosh. Amy caught up on sub-arach details as I outlined the law of God, Murphy or Sod, depending on to whom you subscribe, vis a vis the brain shortcomings, Beth threw up and then we drove home.

Got back at 12.30am to find the barn positively bathed in lights. They've forgotten to switch 'em off, we thought.....but no, they're working through the night, laying the concrete slab. It's impressive.