I haven't spent the Xmas period back home up North probably for about 8 to 10 years.

Normally I stick around for work but decided to venture up this time. Thankfully there wasn't the snow and ice of a few years ago, just wind and rain, which is just as miserable at times.

Saw my little nephews and family. Saw some karate buddies. Went to a black tie do. Saw friends. Saw too much food and drink and not enough sleep.

Saw a couple of places that I had never been to when living up there. Visited the Angel of the North and Penshaw Monument.

Now with New Year's Eve night out looming, I am just knackered. At least tomorrow is supposed to be nice and sunny so will blow the cobwebs off down on 'our' beach.