Its been really lovely having just immediate family for Christmas. So nice not to have to rush around and make everyone feel welcome, since we're almost always the people who host Christmas. I've had a relaxing time, just what I was looking for this break.

Thinking about it, I'm actually quite happy at the moment. I got really useful presents this year, and I didn't have to do the fake "Oh, its lovely" trick once. Its really annoying to read other peoples Christmas present lists, so I shant even tell it.

I think the thing that's made Christmas so nice for me this year however, is that I got to see my sister. And she was lovely. I doubt this'll make much sense to most people, but the past half a dozen years at least have been rather troubled and stressful and rather eventful. There were some issues which I'm in no mood to divulge about. But it did end up with me this Christmas enthralled to see my sister happy. She's making a go of life now and I feel much relief.

However, there was one present I didn't get, which I kind of wanted, the Lord of the Rings books. I guess I didn't get it because with family and friends I don't really have a reputation of being a big reader. Couple with the fact I didn't tell anyone I wanted the books, I'm not really surprised I didn't get them.

But I went out and bought the first to have a read. I've managed the Foreword and the three pages so far. I'm quite happy with my purchase so far.

I do hope everyones Christmases are going well and I'm sure I'm not alone in looking forward to the forthcoming New Year celebrations.

That is, if I survive the sales rushes on Monday!