Well I very slightly overcooked the turkey but I got away with it. By the time we sat down to eat at five o'clock I was a quivering wreck, a Christmas Day tradition. The experimental prepared-earlier frozen roasties were a triumph. It was a pity that the parsnips hadn't yet had a frost on them, but they were still good. I cooked all the greens, four varieties, to perfection. My carrot, swede and turnip rough mash has become a bit a speciality of mine and it was very good. I've found that it freezes perfectly and can be reheated in the microwave, saving stove-top space. Mrs Steve's stuffing, bread sauce, gravy and cranberry sauce, perfect as ever (though no bloody bread sauce for me, thanks, no matter how good!) As ever, the challenge is to get it all plated up and thrust in front of everyone before it all goes cold (I have tactics...), but we managed it quite well this year. Good to have everyone here (just family), unlike last year's Boris-led debacle.

Tomorrow, cold turkey, cold boiled ham, jacket spuds, salad with the best extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing and a jar of pickles. Or will I do a dauphinoise...