7 days to Christmas...

December's a traditionally busy month, but this one's been a little more hectic than usual. With deadlines piling up around every corner, I've been busy writing. My first article for Hindustan Times, among others, will be out soon.

Then, my family came down to Goa to say hello and we all made a trip to Mangalore to visit my grandmother and aunts. There, we spent a few quiet days, walking among coconut and supari trees that have remained unchanged since my childhood. Mr.R honed his photographic skills and captured some lovely birds and butterflies - proof that if you stay still long enough, you'll find some stunning specimens right at your doorstep.

Our Goa-M'lore-Goa journey was made by train and it makes a good alternative to flying or taking a bus.

Back in Goa, we're working on deadlines, getting things in and out of storage, following up on our mile-long to-do list and putting up the Christmas tree (a lovely 8 ft tree this year) and lights. Can you blame me for not blogging?