Today

 The fruit is getting plump and juicy. Will probably make this Christmas cake late today or tomorrow.

Another three metre stretch of bunting - Christmas theme this time. So far, I've made nine metres and looking to make another nine.

A gift from my thoughtful girl. She bought two silk scarves after seeing them made in a workshop in Cambodia. She held them up and asked me to choose. Aren't I lucky?

I didn't have to choose this lovely hand-embroidered napkin from Vietnam. Nicka felt it would look lovely with one of the vintage cups. Like I said.  My thoughtful girl.

What about Nicka's trip?  Very successful by the sounds of it. The owners of the travel agency were most pleased with her work attitude but also with her social skills. Apparently they made mention it was difficult to find someone with excellent people skills whilst also being a competent photographer.

Result? A trip to France next year with celebrity chef George Colombaris and Matt Preston. This time she'll be paid too.  Destinations of many faraway places were talked about but the one place that has absolutely consumed her with passion and yearning is Antarctica. She'll do everything in her power to be on board when and if that cruise is organised.  And knowing Nicka it'll happen. Sorry if the following line offends, but as her brother says with great affection; "that girl was struck up the arse with a rainbow".