With the impossible challenge of coordinating modern life’s many calendars: work, social, and general life admin, Christmas is the one time of year that my family and I are guaranteed some time together. Last year marked an exception to the rule, with extraordinary circumstances meaning I’d to stay in Madrid. Although I did enjoy my Spanish Christmas, this year I was very keen to make up for lost time with my family.

Celebrations actually began early, as my parents flew over to mine for a quick visit to both Madrid and Alcalá de Henares. We grabbed some churros, perused the Christmas markets, and tried some complimentary roscón de reyes at a carol concert that we stumbled across.

A few days after they left, it was time for me to swap the dry winter air of Madrid for the sodden and frosty fields just outside Burnley. We had a lovely family Christmas together, ensuring that none of the essentials were missing: a huge roast, film nights, and the annual Briggs Christmas Quiz courtesy of yours truly.

Once the festivities were over, I grabbed a train to Leeds to visit Em, Lincoln, and Charlie, where we went for walks and had a very necessary catchup over tea in the park. I then saw in the new year closer to home, making the short journey up the road to the Smiths’ farm to celebrate both Jemma’s 30th and the arrival of 2026. It was a delight to spend time with people that, for various reasons, I’d not seen for quite some time.

Shortly after returning to Madrid, I was back on a plane once more. I landed in Tenerife, where I spent a few days with Cami and family. In between cocktails by the sea and drives around the island, they organised a barbecue and karaoke night to celebrate my return to Tenerife after quite a few years. As me and Cami sang a rowdy rendition of Hopelessly Devoted to You, I reflected on the joy that is time spent with loved ones.

From England to Tenerife via Madrid, I had a wonderful few weeks. Thanks to all those mentioned and everyone else — you know who you are.