I spent Christmas eve (and Christmas day) alone this year, much to the consternation of all my Spanish friends. John was on duty in the UK both nights, and they were horrified. I had eight different invitations to join La Cena Familiar, all of which I declined because a) I am not a family member, and b) I am an antisocial bugger.

I am more than happy to sit in and talk to the parrots. They appreciate whatever I say to them, and respond accordingly. And they speak English.

Bitten by Spain author: Deborah Fletcher asin: 1905430507

On a train journey recently, I overheard a number of friends talking about what they had done over the holiday season. One guy said to the others, “have you seen the movie “Déjà Vu?  To which one friend replied;  “ Seen it? I’m living it everyday!”

So, I’m in Birmingham, in the Bullring - more precisely “Selfridges” on Sunday 27th August. They have their Christmas Trees and decorations out now..  “Peace on Earth to all men” in August. 

What shops have you seen Christmas stock appearing on the shelves now ?