I spent Christmas Day with a family whose mother used to live in the flats I’m based in. They were really great fun and, despite the fact I didn’t know a soul, I really enjoyed myself. It was really strange having Christmas in the sun though!

In the evening I finally managed to speak to my Dad who had a stroke a couple of weeks ago. Thankfully it was not too severe and only his speech was affected. It was a great relief to speak to him and discover that he’s making a very good recovery and even his speech hasn’t been affected too much. I also managed to speak to my mum whose husband has been losing health for some time. I felt very torn afterwards about whether I should stay here or go back home and try and be there for my parents.

On Boxing Day, I went to dinner at the parents of the lady I’m house-sitting for. Again, great hospitality but I felt the need to be on my own with my own thoughts that day.