Feeling Chrismassy Now

Yesterday we managed to visit Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, have tea at Harrod's, go to Trafalgar Square and see Hansel and Gretel at the Barbican. If you're still looking to kick-start your Christmas spirit, a wander round central London will do the trick.

More Milan Pics

I Looked For David Beckham in Milan Today

But I didn't see him. Thought he might have been hanging around the Prada shop in La Galleria but he was nowhere to be seen. There were lots of other people instead, sheltering from the rain. It really is a miserable day. Did a little bit of sightseeing eg Il Duoma but was getting so wet I decided to give up and catch the no 19 tram back to my lovely hotel. Plus, there are only so many designer shops one can absorb in one day. Am here until Thursday evening. Hope the weather improves.

Nice Restaurant

Went to Orso in Covent Garden for lunch today which was lovely. Its in a basement location and has been around for a long time. It specialises in really delicious rustic Italian food, served in hand painted tableware. It had a nice buzzy atmosphere. The staff were really friendly and helpful too.

Recommended.

Derby vs Man United

Miraculously Derby find themselves in the semi final of the Carling Cup, where in January they will play Man U over 2 legs. Of course, there will be only one winner and Derby's aim will be to get through it without being totally humiliated.

Those will long memories will recall that it wasn't always like this. Check out this fabulous film footage of Derby playing Man U at the Baseball ground in 1970, featuring some of the best players in the history of either club, playing sublime football on one of the worst pitches ever. Happy days.

My Favourite Christmas Ads

Tesco Featuring Des O'Connor
Reminds me a lot of the old Morecombe and Wise Christmas Specials, where Des was the butt of all their jokes. Funny - but with a strong value message.

Argos Garage
Very insightful depiction of the risks of last minute Christmas shopping. Its happened to us all, I'm sure. Slightly incongrous Stephen Fry voiceover, but adds to the humour.

Marks and Spencer
This is where I'd like to be on Christmas day - at Twiggy's lovely house with lots of good looking women and having a sing a long with Take That.

Waitrose
Beautiful production values, great soundtrack. Lovely images of people travelling home for Christmas.

Click on the titles to view them

Monday Morning

View from my office window.

A Star is Born

Lia was the Wonderful Wizard of Oz at yesterday's Stagecoach performance at Honeywell School.

She was fantastic. The star of the show.

What I'm Reading

I've just finished Murakami's latest book, 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' and really enjoyed it.

Its a very slim book, more of a diary than a novel / autobiography that reflects on his pre-occupation with running and how it influences his life and his writing.

I happen to be a big fan of his and a regular-ish runner so I guess that's what appeals to me about it. As well getting to understand the author and his life, Its helped me understand the love/hate relationship I have with running and has inspired me to go out more often.

Recommended for all the runners and Murakami fans out there.

We're Gonna Win the Cup

Tonight Derby beat Stoke 1-0 and are now in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup. The first time for 40 years, thanks to an injury time penalty.

Could be another trip to Wembley. Remember the last time we were there?

Karen's Birthday Party

Hurray - made it back in time for Karen's BIG party which was fab. Thanks to Richard and Grant for the live performance, Andy the DJ for the classic tunes, the caterers and all the helpers..and most of all to the friends who made it such a memorable event.

Wandsworth council officials came round early in the morning to tell us to keep the volume down, so apologies to all the neighbours.

For full, unedited photos click here.