Humbug

Unfortunately, sib and I got some enervating bug on the way here for the hols; fortunately, we recovered quickly; unfortunately, this meant we could run around working like dogs for a couple of days; fortunately, that put us ahead of the game, because today, unfortunately, our parent is down and out of it. Fortunately, there aren't any children around this year, so if we have to put everything off for a few days nobody will burst with antici.....pation, and if parent is up but enfeebled tomorrow, sib and I (and partner of parent) can do everything. (Says she with airy wave of hand and confidence born of ignorance... no, we're old hands at Big Dinners. Yes, cooking them too, ha ha.)
I wonder if the parsnips need digging up?

Joyeux Noel, folks!