For New Year, we hopped on the train bound for Aberdeen. Sevenish hours each way, but the children were beautifully behaved, so my fears (hopes?) of an empty carriage didn’t pan out. In fact, on the return trip, a lady disembarking after six hours came over to thank the kiddies for entertaining her on her journey. My jaw dropped – and my heart swelled with pride. Tip for long journeys: a) patience b) snacks c) sticker books d) crayons and e) siblings who truly get along. Oh and people travelling with dogs offer plenty of entertainment (but how do they deal with potty breaks for pets?)

 

Though our journey was tolerable, I can't imagine folks who do the London-Aberdeen journey frequently will take the train, unless they get the sleeper. The Caledonian Sleeper leaves London every night except Saturday, so next time we may try that. It seems quite civilised, even romantic (well, perhaps that's stretching it with children in tow). Whichever train we choose, I can promise it will be a summer one.

 

I spent a fluey week wallowing in bed with a hottie while the rest of the troupe enjoyed bracing winter walks and chilly picnics. I hope one day to see the views they raved about – but as I practically had chilblains indoors, I'll save braving the elements for the summer months. Or the summer week, as the case may be in Aberdeen. (Must stop imagining any positive benefits from global warming!) At least I recovered enough to enjoy the New Year’s Eve party – the friendly locals even taught me a traditional dance. Still, it's a good thing I don't live up there – our heating bill (and carbon footprint) would be supersized.

 

Speaking of carbon footprints, we've resolved this year – like most Guardian readers – to shrink ours. Alas, I've been summoned to the US to visit my terminally ill father, and even the sleeper train doesn't go that far.