Xmas was a jolly affair with the Gardner clan, bolstered by an influx of local rellies as well as some Generals and Corporals from the Barmy Army. Santa was prodigous with his goodwill and a great time was had by all. The weather was a little less generous than we might have hoped - occasional drizzle and a temperature of around 14 degrees were more English than Australian but the recent droughts meant any rain was welcome.

On Boxing Day we headed for the MCG, where England successfully put (some) runs on the board (or were all out for a dismal score depending on your point of view!) and then took a couple of quick wickets. Hurrah England! It was a rather chilly day - with cups of tea, hot chocloate and the value proposition of half pints of wine aiding in efforts to keep warm.

In the evening we headed to Kate & Jimmy's for a delicious Mauritian curry and fine wines as we admired the view of the city from the new apartment block that they are renting. Dave was feeling a little tired and fragile by the end of the night so left the others to watch The Thin Red Line (even though they had started watching it about half way through...)