Huddersfield

Between Christmas and New Year we go to my parents. They look forward to it all year and the organisation in meticulous. This year it's at a hotel, as catering is probably easier that way. We've had it at their house before and it all gets a bit fraught. We will pick up up the drinks tab. We have booked our meals in advance so the hotel know who is having what. Everyone descends on the place at the appointed time.

Despite initial hesitation we all get on very well. We always do as everyone is determined to have a good time. The seating has been carefully arranged to minimise any possible friction. My children are spread across each table, as are all the children. In fact we are all very well mixed up.

I have bought my parents a digital picture frame. So has Heather. Oh dear, hers is smaller than mine, so she feels a bit put out but able to smile about it. I've also loaded up photos which I hope will be OK. Many of the ones of my children are from facebook, and not necessarily the ones they'd choose for their grandparents, but hey, it's their natural way of being and more interesting than posed photos.

Then it's time to go back to mum & dad's house. They look forward to this bit too. My children prefer to go home a this stage, which is a shame because Granny and cousins would like them to stick around a bit longer. There is clearly a good reason for it, as always, and anyway Emily is going back to America tomorrow so no late night. Hmmm.

My brother, or more specifically Kate, his wife are able to take me home later so I stay a bit longer. Amongst other things we play giant pick-up-sticks. Excellent, must borrow for New Year party which, I've just heard, is going to be at mine, although no official work yet.

Christmas is finally over for another year. It's been fun. Now to face the New Year.