The visit

This afternoon I'm off to collect my parents who's long awaited and much anticipated visit has finally arrived. I can't wait, patience has never been one of my virtues! Consequently this morning gemmaks-ville is a hive of activity and it's all systems go as I make the final preparations. Much food and beverage has been purchased and prepared, even I can make an effort in the culinary department when necessary and plans have been made.

To a point it's a cheat, it could be more involved but for the fact that as PG and I reside in only a one bedroom flat the parents choose to stay in a local hotel rather than oust us from our bed onto the floor. They tell me it's 'age', they are used to their creature comforts and prefer an en-suite and room service to four adults stumbling over one another in a space made for two!

Now there by hangs a tale, the hotel they have chosen is some cause for concern to PG and I. It is a perfectly nice establishment in a beautiful village not 5 miles away, unfortunately it also houses the bar frequented by the local rugby club who are not renowned for 'drinking quietly' on festive occasions and more pointedly PG's ex-wife (draw your own conclusion there) who to this day remains somewhat 'unfriendly' where we are concerned. You have to bear in mind here this is a very small area where all and sundry like to and indeed do, for the most part, take a great 'interest' in the lives of others! We did our best, we warned them but they where not to be put off....all we can do now is attempt to maintain a low profile and hope that on new years eve we can party late enough into the night that the decibel level has dropped by the time we return them to the place!

So what are we going to do in this gale swept corner of Scotland during the visit, I have no idea, well I have a few ideas, aside from eating, drinking and much chattering but most options are dependent on the weather conditions so only time will tell. New years eve we are booked into a local hostelry complete with excellent fare, real ale (a must for my father) and complete with a piper to see in 2005. I did attempt to persuade PG to hire the full bit, kilt, sporran etcetera, etcetera, for the night but it was not to be!

So for now I'm gone....off to make my final preparations in the hope that all runs smoothly.....famous last words! heh.