The Bear was very good for Christmas. He didn't say much to anyone but, at least, he only got cross once - when the TV wouldn't work because it was unplugged.

He wasn't exactly sociable with our visitors. In fact, after saying 'Bonjour' he settled down behind a book during the aperitif and hardly spoke during the meal either. He went and sat in his armchair while I was making the custard and so when we brought the pudding to the table to set it alight the only people who saw it were our visitors, Jay, CC and me, (as the Whale had gone back to bed to rest his bum!) It was a rather strange end to Christmas dinner but our French friends were intrigued and appeared to enjoy themselves even though they must have thought the English had odd manners.

As soon as they took their leave the TV was switched on and so we were a bit like the Royle family, splayed out in armchairs, over fed and sleepy as we watched Doctor Who etc.

But, it has to be said that this year the Bear bought me a present - a pressure cooker so I was left wondering how he knew. . . .