I know that it might not sound like a lot to you, but being out on a terrace at 7a.m. on the first day of my holiday, with all of Balluta Bay beneath me was quite something. Even though the temperature is not quite where I'd like it to be, the sight of a clear blue sky and the sea still has an effect on me that nothing else has.

There's been a bit of a change of plan. Instead of going to Gozo for a week as originally planned, we decided to take on a friend's generous offer to house sit his and his partner's flat while they are away on holiday. It's great. We're living in five-star accommodation - for free. Here I am saying "we" when at the moment, I am still here alone. At Luton airport, on our way here, we found out - at the check-in desk - that Significant Other's passport had expired by two weeks. There was a moment at the check in desk when I thought it was all going to go ape, but thankfully it all got sorted out. It would have been easier - and cheaper for him - if he'd had his ID card with him, but that was not the case. Still, it's spilt milk that is not worth shedding tears about. I'd rather concentrate on the few days of fun ahead.

Seeing as I'm officially on holiday, I'm going to be brief with this week's contribution. Sitting here typing away at a computer seems criminal, even on a cold February night indoors. So, if you'll excuse me, I've got some spare time to enjoy.