If you want to get a head...

Humour me, if you will, whilst I show off a little.

For the first time ever I finished something that I started knitting! I decided to knit a hat for my sister-in-law, as a Christmas present. I'd recently bought a book of lovely knitted gifts, and I thought she'd like this particular hat, but my previous record of knitting didn't bode well for it actually getting done. However, I persevered (and bought some 'backup' Christmas presents, just in case) and was putting the finishing touches to it at about 11pm on Christmas Eve. Phew!

I was very happy with the results - what do you think?

I've started the matching scarf - I'm sure I can manage to finish it by next Christmas!

Here's looking at you

If you value your civil liberties, and concur with the Daily Mail view of CCTV cameras, I should warn you against visiting me in my home.

Thomas has just installed a sophisticated security system to give him advance warning of who is approaching his room. Bearing in mind that it's only ever me, I fail to see the point, but it makes him happy.

He has set up a security camera by his bedroom door, and plugged it in to his TV so he can see anyone in the hallway. It's a nifty setup for something that cost £4.99 from Lloyds Pharmacy, I have to admit. He's thinking of going back tomorrow for a laser trip wire. In fact, they've got a sale on and he can afford two.

I suggested he set the camera up in his bedroom window, overlooking the front of the flat, so that when there's interesting shouting going on, we can have a look without curtain-twitching and fear of being spotted. But he was more concerned with internal security.

Of course, he's not allowed the TV on past 9pm, so night-time intruders need not worry.