Big Surf

Folks, don't panic, we are safe and well. You will all be aware of the news regarding the earthquake and tidal waves, however we have not been affected at all. I am sure we will know people who have got caught up in this whole episode especially in areas frequented by Singapore residents at this time of year. I really think our region has had it's fare share of disasters and calamities over the last 10 years, both man made and natural. Hopefully we can move on next year to a more settled environment. Claire and Mary were walking along Batu Ferringe beach in Penang one morning less than two weeks ago, so I suppose we have had a close call. Hotels we have stayed in previously have probably been destroyed or best washed out in Phuket, Langkawi and Penang. It will probably take years to build up the tourism infrastruture in these areas again. Further afield, whole communities have been wiped out, we will say a prayer for them.

On a lighter note, our turkey was spot on, targeted for about 2 pm and I was serving up a juicy bird at 1.30, accompanied by roasted garlics, onions and parsnips, roasted carrots with carraway seeds, mashed potatoes, sprouts glazed with orange zest, and over cooked cauliflower, a sumptuous gravy, cranberry sauce and a M&S Tomato and Roasted Pepper soup. Christmas pud to follow, some Australian Pinot Noir PoP and italian dessert wine I dragged back from Rome, Stilton, Aussie brie and french camenbert, (gave the Rochefort a miss this year). Family very appreciative.

Happy Christmas to you all, apologies for the lack of cards and presents etc. but really this last few weeks has been hectic, back to work today (monday). A big congratulations to Mum and Dad for another celebration, and thanks to Steve and family and Cathy and family visiting the folks during this time.

Wishing you all an exciting and prosperous new year,

Love Nic, Jen Daniel and Claire