Some things are just not meant to be

Above you can see a picture of our bags and Jamie's folded up pram. But, sadly, they're not in Coleraine where they should be by now. They're actually in our kitchen.

We didn't get to go to Northern Ireland for Christmas after all, or at least not for Christmas Day.

Some five hours after our arrival in Leeds Bradford Airport this morning, we were finally informed that our plane would not be leaving that particular strip of tarmac. But should we wish to take our chances, we could spin the roulette wheel in Manchester another five hours from then. However, in true airline company speak, they "could not guarantee that [we] will be able to fly."

Jamie had been very good to that point, bless him. But there had been a few (perfectly understandable) tantrums and the idea of an elongated and crappy coach journey followed by another uncertain wait on an airport floor simply wasn't an option.

Since then, we've booked to hopefully get away on Boxing Day morning, albeit from Manchester.

I've been to Asda and Marks & Spencer to get food and other supplies.

I've had a word with Father Christmas to make sure he knows that Jamie isn't where he told the big man he was going to be on Christmas Eve.

And, tomorrow, we're off to Jamie's very kind Auntie Helen and Uncle Jonathan's to join what is always a terrifically fun traditional Christmas Day gathering.

So, you know, Christmas is far from being spoilt.

And, if Father Christmas does think Jamie has been a good boy this year (and who am I to tell?) maybe our little man will be much more cheery come the morning.

I'll therefore say it again and this time with extra enthusiasm - MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!