(2/2) I stopped myself from the seductive purchase of 50 slices of Gouda cheese by making a displacement purchase i.e. buy something which is both healthier, and a pleasant distraction, instead. Psychology for the win.

Voila: I am now the owner (till it's eaten) of a Fondue with Swiss Cheese kit.

Wishing you a memorable and successful Thursday!

(3/3) My grandfather; yep. Christmas greatly improved when he couldn't come to the dinner because his Austin Allegro was in the garage.

Also, this Christmas ad short perhaps has crossover relevance for American friends doing their US Thanksgiving dinner thing.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgY5...

(2/3) We used to get Christmas cards from several customers on our farmshop. One couple, who we barely knew, sometimes wrote wildly personal medical updates in their annual card, even when we stopped sending cards to them.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-LQ...

(3/3) it is time for cake. Perhaps it is always time for cake?

Bearing in mind there is an uncertain quantity of mince pies back at base, selected a small cake topped with nostalgic sugary sweets. Swizzels Fizzers for the win.

Sugar with the addition of a small quantity of flour. Never change.

(2/3) Taking the day off, dropping off to check where I am with life things, check in with the team, write cards, buy a cardigan, and a couple of lattes while listening to the regular barista tell anecdotes from her unusual life outside of the 8 to 4.

But now, with cat, first coffee in the library.