As we here in the antipodes swelter in 33°C early summer temparatures with the accompanying 95% humidity, my thoughts go out to all you Northern hemispericans, freezing your collective butts.
I shall spare a thought as I lay basking on the sands like a beached whale, enjoying the cooling waters of the South Pacific; partaking of an array of fresh shellfish (oysters, scallops, assorted clams); fish not 5 minutes from the ocean; cold meats; garden fresh salads and freshly harvested baby potatoes - all washed down (as appropriate) with either a crisp 2005 Marlborough Sauvignon; Central Otago Pinot Noir - or Champagne (I have a few bottles of Laurent Perrier Grand Siècle 'La Cuvée' - and a single bottle of LP Grand Siècle 1990 Lumière du Millénaire for New Years Eve).
To each and all regardless of your location, nationality or spiritual persuasions I wish you the very best for the festive season and a very prosperous, happy and healthy 2006.