Time with loved ones is greatest gift

DRIVING home for Christmas, I can’t wait to see those faces – and this year I’m spending it with my future in-laws.

Some might toe curl at the idea, but thankfully mine are lovely and welcoming.

My parents have luckily made it to Australia to spend the festivities with my brothers and the rest of the family in Sydney. I’m so grateful they have been allowed to visit after so long.

The Australian government opened up their borders at the end of November to immediate family members, which includes parents, but sadly sisters aren’t quite important enough just yet. I’m holding out hope for a visit in the new year – as soon as it’s open we’ll be on a plane.

So as my parents jet off for the sunshine, we are heading to Cheltenham to spend some time with my fiance’s family.

It’s the first time we’ve both managed to be off over Christmas for enough days to make a trip down south worth the six-hour drive. With the car packed up with presents and the festive playlist at the ready we were all prepared.

Christmas makes most people sentimental, me included. I always count my blessings and I feel this year has been a special one with our

Forget about nights out, it’s who is round your table that matters most

engagement, but above all I’m just grateful to be celebrating with those we love the most. To think the year started in another lockdown and we can all agree the winter lockdown was the worst one. It’s incredible to think how fast this year has flown in and just how many incredible memories have been made during such difficult times.

If the last few weeks have taught us anything it’s how quickly things can change and as we face another long winter of uncertainty ahead we need to all stay safe and hold those we love most dear.

Forget about drinks and nights out, it’s who is round your table that matters most. It’s those experiences we will look back on.

Family is most important to me, and to get to share in my in-laws’ Christmas traditions this year while I FaceTime my niece and nephew is all the joy I need - and not to be taken for granted.

I know I can’t physically be in Australia but to witness the expressions on my family’s faces when they open their gifts will still be a beautiful moment.

The hugs will just have to wait for another year.