My last Christmas was fairly similar Steve, so I can sympathise. I had been here in the sandpit for 3 months and had prepared the house for my wife and children coming over with decorations up and presents under the tree. Unfortunately the Oman visa process was an absolute nightmare, and resulted in them arriving in January :-( I had McDonalds on Christmas Day, and I don't even like them.

This Christmas will be spent on a remote beach with wife, kids and my parents. Prawns on the BBQ and beer in hand. Although will have a traditional roast on Christmas Eve, followed by a run on the beach.