Here is a copy of our Christmas email:
Dear all
MERRY CHRISTMAS 2012
Well it looks like the Mayans messed it up again. Why anyone would listen to some drug-addled bikers, who come across as a bunch of noobs on Sons of Anarchy, is beyond me (did I do that joke last year?).
All is (reasonably) well in the Ellis household. It has been a pretty good year all in all, although it has also been a very difficult last six months (especially for Bec).
Most of you probably know that Bec is pregnant again (due in February), and we are very much looking forward to number four making an appearance. However, it has been a bit more tricky this time around, and Bec has been on strict orders to take it (very) easy for the best part of six months. Hence, a very fed up wife, grumpy children, me doing school pick ups, minimal social life, and general disruption. Plus, Bec's doctor has just bought a new BMW thanks to our patronage - well, I guess we helped at least.
We started the year as we left off last year, hence we've had another huge year of concerts, including Arash (bouncy Iranian music - lots of fun), Kasabian, David Guetta, Duran Duran, Eagles, Snow Patrol, Kaiser Chiefs, Fatboy Slim, Tinie Tempah, Dizzee Rascal, J-Lo, Usher, Katy Perry etc.
Unfortunately, Bec missed a few towards the end, and she also missed the Eagles (absolutely amazing concert by the way), as she was in New Zealand for a wedding (on her own!). She had a great time catching up with friends and family, and I just loved looking after three kids on my own (toilet accident in the communal pool on the first day, not pretty). Actually, my parents arrived shortly after and helped me out, so I can't shout too loud about it all.
We had one main family holiday, in Phuket, Thailand, which was absolutely great. I really recommend The Chava Resort in Surin Bay for families, so brilliant and reasonable (off season). Half of Dubai seemed to be in Phuket at the same time, so we kept bumping into friends at the Catch Beach Club just opposite the hotel, which had fab ice cream. You can't beat a walk on the beach and ice cream every night on a holiday.
I also managed to get away for a few days on my own, and went to watch Harlequins play in the London Double Header at the start of the season. Great win from Harlequins, and great to catch up with my old Guernsey mates and a few old work friends. Felt strange to be back in London. I do miss it, but not as much as I should.
The kids are doing great. Daisy and Zach are getting good school reports, and Sebastian is attacking play group with gusto. Zach has started rugby (go Arabian Knights!). We are trying to wean Sebastian off his two favourite tops (long sleeve, blue stripes) as they are getting too small and falling apart. He is a very determined and particular young chap, and hence resisting. Daisy has started piano lessons (at least it is not the violin).
Dubai appears to be picking up. It is the perfect place to park some cash if you were the wrong side of the Arab Spring. Plus, they just keep coming (the tourists), and they like to spend (why not eh?) hence business is pretty good. Our highest monthly radio revenues ever actually, but who's counting (errr....)?
We are still happy here, and we can't imagine moving any time soon. However, the worst thing about Dubai is regularly seeing great friends leave, and it was very sad to see Rob & Kate leave to go back to Blighty, plus Nat & Jules leave for Qatar.
Anyway, it's late and I'm sure you've all got better things to do. I have a date with a pregnant wife, a can of beer, a well worn couch, and a token Christmas movie! So, until next year, I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas and a truly awesome 2013.
As usual, please look us up if you are passing through this part of the world.
Lots of love from
Andy, Bec, Daisy, Zach & Sebastian x
