The Big Easy

What can I say? It's been busy, but somehow outrageously dull at the same time, down in this corner of the world.

Kids and I fly to Borneo in five days' time to spend Christmas with my mother and stepfather (Spouse joins us a week later). This is Spouse and self enjoying a bit of luxury last time we went, 7 years ago.

And Kid 2 also clearly having a terrible time; Kid 1 enjoying the sunset.

There, now I've got myself in the mood for it.

Kid 2 is obsessed with elephants so the timing of this story was a bit off.

The list of things that Must Be Done before we get on the plane is staggering. I have made shortbread and caramels and chocolate truffles and bought gifts for all those people it's important not to forget (piano teacher, band teacher, tutors, woman who helps the kids cross the road - it's a long list). But I'm about to concede that it may be the first year in about 15 that I have not handmade my Christmas cards. Sometimes one just has to let go ...

AND, my clients apparently have sixth sense - they don't see dead people, they see people trying to get away on holidays. Turns out my laptop will be enjoying a trip to Borneo too, lucky thing.

Apropos of not very much, I had a birthday a few weeks back, and we went away for a weekend with some friends. Auspiciously, the weather was fabulous. We played badminton and drank champagne and ate duck with quince and pistacchios. Since then, it has rained more or less non-stop. We have had the coldest start to summer in 50 years. I am almost looking forward to the steamy heat of the tropics.