Winterval
Right.
I’ve now plunged gleefully into family Christmas life and will be staying there, becoming progressively more festive, until January 1 – by which time I will be so jolly I will be indistiguishable from someone like Brian Blessed. Then I’m going away on holiday until the 13th, with the aim of recharging batteries (as they say) and getting drunk (as they say) and all in all, topping up my energies and appetite for life/work.
With this in mind I have been pondering a nice break from the blog. If we were still on a 100% record since the beginning, I would fight shy of a move like this, but the fact is I did miss that single date on August 1, I believe it was – so the daily ten-year blog thing was never going to finish absolutely intact. Perhaps because it was impossible. Given this, although I’ve every intention of carrying this on till I’m 40 as planned, it now seems a bit futile to race to do it every day, if it means I’m desperately clawing something online at 11.54pm just to maintain the continuity. I think I’d rather miss the odd day but up the quality a bit. This is in line with my general intention of doing less, but better, in 2012.
This might also help minimise the number of times I write something unprofessional on a self-pitying impulse and get into trouble with someone.
So, yes, the ten-year blog is still alive, but the latest twist in its evolution is that it’s going to take a little break. I propose to restart on January 16, that is the end of my holiday plus a weekend. I will have saved up some pretty shit-hot stuff to say, undoubtedly. It’ll be interesting to see if anyone remembers to read that day. I suspect a few of you will, somehow. And after that – the blog will be MOST days but I might miss the odd one, and if I have more personal stuff to say I might sneak it onto the forum rather than put it out here for all to gaze at.
Thanks to anyone who’s troubled to read this during 2011, sometimes reaping pretty meagre rewards, and special thanks to those who turned up almost every day or ACTUALLY every day. You know who you are. I remain very grateful for your support, not so much for the blog as throughout my oddball career. See you in the new year.
PS Oh, by the way – my agents might well get on here during the ‘winterval’ and post information about gigs and so forth. Don’t worry about this. It’s on the level.
Posted by Sarah on January 16, 2012
Right, I have got the right date now. Looking forward to todays blog
Posted by Jen on January 16, 2012
Loving the footy updates still n looking forward to Marks blog!Jx
Posted by Allie on January 15, 2012
Looking forward to tomorrow… Long awaited return of Mr Watson, and long awaited first day of my new job…. yaaay good start to the new year xxx
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 15, 2012
Here, here, Natalie-Helen … couldn’t agree more …
I’m a little worried that tomorrow, every minute or two, there will be SO many Watsonians logging in around the world to enjoy your restart Mark, that we could possibly crash the whole system …
But I’m willing to run that risk if you are … living on the edge, as ever!!!
Posted by Natalie-Helen on January 15, 2012
It has come to my attention that you will soon be returning post holiday.
So Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and I do hope you enjoyed the break.
Quite exciting to have you back soon though.
^_^
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 14, 2012
Cathy … that’s nothing …
I have MY team to follow
Mark’s team
3 different other teams on behalf of 3 of my female friends
2 more supported by 2 of my grandsons
AND another one in memory of my brother, who with some of his mates, selected a common team to support by the old ‘pin in the paper’ method!!!
VERY exciting but VERY confusing … at least I can guarantee that some of my family and friends are happy and some are NOT every time!!! LOL!!!
Dinner still smelling delicious!!! ;D
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 14, 2012
FOOTBALL CATCH UP …
Sorry to report that a goal either side of half time lead to defeat for City at Brighton …
The team are now 20th in the Championship table … but it’s still a very tight league with most of the second half of the season ahead … no need to panic yet!
Keep on keeping on … and crossed, eh, Jen? x
Posted by Cathy (traineeflorist) on January 14, 2012
Hubby just told me they’re losing Suzanne (it’s 16.39) in between telling me that Leeds have equalized, not sure what Man City are doing today, it’s hard following three teams!!
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 14, 2012
* * * FINGER CROSSING FOOTIE ALERT * * *
SATURDAY 14 JANUARY
BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION v BRISTOL CITY
KICK OFF: 3.00 pm
* * * FINGER CROSSING FOOTIE ALERT * * *
We’ll do our best and cross our fingers, as ever … hope we contribute to more points as a welcome back to Mark and the family!
Sure you’re with me, Jen x
Posted by Sarah on January 13, 2012
I thought it would be a bit early to check as soon as I got in to work
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 12, 2012
We will indeed, Jen xx
Sure we’re all thinking of Mark as he and the family prepare to return from their overdue, well earned holiday …
Can’t wait to read his delightful, amusing, thought provoking, witty blogs again … BUT, let’s hope he’ll at least allow himself to breath occasionally on his mad dash through life … or am I just being plain silly???
Posted by Jen on January 10, 2012
We will stay positive Suzanne!Jx
Posted by amycool on January 9, 2012
Not long now…:-)
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 7, 2012
FA Cup result:
As suggested, the Crawley Town v Bristol City game was indeed tricky and didn’t go City’s way when Matt Tubbs hit the winner in the 73rd minute to put the home side through to the next round …
Sadly no lucrative game in the Cup against Premier opposition this season … back to concentrating on further progress up the table …
Sure we did our bit, Jen … just not to be this time round … sigh! S xx
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 6, 2012
* * * FA Cup 3rd Round * * *
SATURDAY 7 JANUARY 2012
CRAWLEY TOWN v BRISTOL CITY
Kick Off: 3 pm
* * * FA Cup 3rd Round * * *
Crawley Town are currently top of FA League Two. This fixture could be a tricky match with the potential of producing a surprise result …
As much finger crossing as possible would be much appreciated from all Watsonians!!! Know we can rely on you, Jen … S xx
Posted by Jen on January 5, 2012
Awww big thanku – my friends wedding was on New Years Eve so was a lot of fun!Hopefully see you at a gig soon – I’ve a few booked already
all the best for 2012!Jx ps I’ll keep checkin for football updates!
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 5, 2012
Thanks, Jen … couldn’t really stop, could I??? But, as it’s understandably quiet on here at the moment, was getting the feeling that I was ‘talking to myself’ … nothing new there then!!! LOL!!!
Hope to meet you in person some time in 2012 … hope it’s a good one for you. Btw, love the pix of you at the wedding … beautiful dresses! S xx
Posted by Jen on January 5, 2012
Here Suzanne – loving the footy alerts – still ready with positivity!Jx
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 3, 2012
HOORAY!!!
Maynard scored 3 minutes into extra time to move City up the table! Just reward in the dying seconds for superior possession and more shots on goal!
Warning heeded, Andrew … not an apostrophe in sight this time …
Posted by Andrew on January 3, 2012
I know it’s Christmas and all (back end thereof), but careful with that apostrophe Suzanne. Something of a different meaning otherwise.
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 3, 2012
Not sure how many Watsonians are checking the blog while Mark and family are taking a well deserved break BUT, until told otherwise, I feel I should continue to flag up the Robin’s upcoming games …
Bristol City FC are scheduled to play Millwall FC at Ashton Gate, kick off at 7.45 this evening.
However, weather conditions are atrocious at 10.30 am and I wouldn’t be surprised if the game is postponed.
Watch this space …
Posted by Ingrid on January 1, 2012
Happy new year Watsonians!
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on January 1, 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL WATSONIANS!!!
Have a very happy, healthy and hilarious 2012, Mark!!!
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on December 31, 2011
Well, what do ya know???
Bristol City went away to top of the table Southampton and beat them!!!
HIP HIP HOORAY!!!
Stephen Pearson scored the only goal on 79 minutes to take all three points and end Southampton’s 25 games unbeaten run!!!
Welll played the Robins!!!
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on December 30, 2011
Love and second Britta’s comments about Eleven!!!
* * * FINGERS READY??? * * *
Southampton v Bristol City
Friday 30th December
Kick off: 17.45 pm
* * * FINGERS READY??? * * *
Not an easy fixture as Southampton are at the top of the table … BUT … we must play our part …
Watch this space … Jen and all others involved!!!
Posted by lisan66 on December 30, 2011
I miss this!! Hope everyone had a nice Christmas, and that everyone has a lovely new year’s eve!
Posted by Britta Langhoff on December 29, 2011
Dear Mark Watson,
At the end of 2011, I would like to tell you that I liked “Eleven” so much. It was the only book in this year I have recommended to our readers without any restrictions. For me it was my book of the year. Thank you so much for that and I hope that even the german Watsonians will have the opportunity to read your books in future.
I wish you a great winterval and only the best for 2012.
Britta Langhoff
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on December 26, 2011
How long has 72nd ended with st??? Oooops! P’raps I should have had MORE to drink???
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on December 26, 2011
Despite having more of the possession, Bristol City lost to a 72th minute goal from the home side at Leicester City today. This leaves them one point above the relegation zone … here’s looking forward to better results in the rest of the season …
We must try harder, Jen … perhaps crossing toes as well???
S xx
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on December 26, 2011
Hi to you all … I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Christmas Day … I certainly did …
Just thought I’d flag up the following Football Alert for Bristol City …
Boxing Day fixture …
Coventry City v Bristol City
Kick off: 3.00 pm
Any of you who would like to join the finger crossers on this blog will be more than welcome … Jen and many others have taken up the cause and done their bit to help Mark’s team of choice in their quest to climb the league …
It’s the least we can do to help raise the spirits and return to full health of our great leader!!! So go to it one and all!!!
I will return … hopefully with good news after the final whistle …
Happy Boxing Day!!!
Posted by FlanaganR on December 25, 2011
Happy Christmas Watson, Mrs Watson and Master Watson.
Enjoy your break. Yule be back soon enough.
I’ve had name change here forced on me to ensure I’m not mistaken for a foul-mouthed comedian. Looks like I’ll be in the frozen north for a while but hopefully see you, Key, Basden, Horne soon.
Posted by Ben on December 25, 2011
Xmas morning and sitting watching the DVD. Great start to the day
Posted by Allie on December 24, 2011
Enjoy the festivities and holiday….we’ll be here awaiting your return..
and to all Watsonians, wishing you a fabulous Christmas and a wonderful 2012 xxxxx
Posted by Katie on December 24, 2011
I eagerly await your shit-hot blogging in the new year (not that it’s not already shit-hot, but…y’know). Merry Christmas and a happy New Year, Watson. Hope Santa’s good to you and yours. x
Posted by Joelle on December 24, 2011
I hope you enjoy your Christmas
Posted by LisaD on December 24, 2011
Merry Christmas and enjoy your break! That goes to everyone else as well
Perhaps we Watsonians will be inspired to find some ways to recharge for 2012.
Posted by ChrisP on December 24, 2011
Merry Christmas to you Mr. Watson.
Posted by Sue (DiB) on December 23, 2011
Very sensible, we don’t want you to burn out. x
Posted by Tim Buckle on December 23, 2011
I love reading your blog but knowing how time consuming a weekly blog is I understand the difficulty you have. Enjoy the time off and I look forward to your mid January blog. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. A fellow blogger.
Posted by Rachael on December 23, 2011
Glad to hear you are taking a well deserved break at last. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays Mr Watson! x
Posted by Ingrid on December 23, 2011
Aww
well you deserve a break! Have an awesome Christmas Mark. I’ll miss you but I suspect your DVD is waiting under the tree for me 
Merry Christmas and a happy new year, and thanks for another year of your awesome thoughts (: you’ve been great. As usual! Thanks Xxx
Posted by Helen on December 23, 2011
Have the most marvellous of breaks, I look forward to reading again in January. I wish you a really Merry Christmas and a superb New Year x
Posted by Melinda on December 23, 2011
Have a good rest Mark!
Posted by Josh (the conceited one) on December 23, 2011
A good decision, Watson. You were in danger of exploding at the rate you were going. Remember you never said “daily blog” for 10 years just a “blog”.
I think Watsonians should take up the challenge of supplying the 25 days of blog that we’ll be lacking. In fact, I sense a forum topic developing.
http://www.markwatsonfans.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=778
Posted by Jen on December 23, 2011
I will miss your daily blog but I totally agree – you need rest!Av a great Christmas,New Year n holiday!Love n hugs to you n yours!Jx
Posted by Lydia on December 23, 2011
Good plan. Though I will obviously miss the blog you seriously need a rest, Watson.
I hope you all have a lovely Christmas xxx
Posted by amycool on December 23, 2011
I shall certainly miss your blogs but I’m pleased to hear you’re having a proper break. Even with my not very busy schedule, I doubt I could have written a blog every day, but yours is crazy.
Wishing Watson and all Watsonians a marvellous Yuletide, and hoping you all get to play lots of board games and eat lots of Celebrations!
xxx
Posted by sarahthemonkey2 on December 23, 2011
Merry Christmas and a happy new year to everyone. See you all in the new year!
Posted by Madeleine on December 23, 2011
You definitely deserve a break! I always enjoy reading every post but it’s a good idea to let yourself off the hook once in a while! Have a wonderful Chrismas. It’s boiling and muggy with breaks of torrential rain in Brisbane, so I’m very jealous of those gloriously freezing in the Northern Hemisphere.
Posted by David (man proposing) on December 23, 2011
That seams like a good idea, although I do like the idea of a daily blog.
I am actually considering doing a daily blog myself, but hopefully with some help to take the pressure off.
Anyway Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all
Posted by Nuala on December 23, 2011
Happy Christmas!
Posted by Knox on December 23, 2011
good thinking, watson – looking forward to the return in the new year, but meanwhile, have a lovely lovely christmas, new year, and *holiday*! xxx
Posted by Hannah on December 23, 2011
I’ve loved every day of this blog, but you definitely deserve a well-earned break, Watson! I have the 16th pencilled in already!
Merry Christmas! x
Posted by Suzy on December 22, 2011
Sounds like an excellent plan. Have a lovely time with your family and enjoy your holiday. We’ll still be here when you come back
Hugs & cwtches xxx
Posted by Emily on December 22, 2011
Glad you are finally getting a break, though the blog will be missed, rest is more important.
On which note, I take this opportunity to hijack the comments to say that there is a (currently small scale) meet-up planned in Birmingham on 14th January. Time and exact location to be determined.
Forum link:
http://www.markwatsonfans.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=20817
Posted by Megan on December 22, 2011
Oh, thank goodness you’ve seen (more) sense. Enjoy your sabbatical, m’dear, and I hope you and the family have a terrific holiday season.
(Any Watsonians have blogs we should all be checking out in the interim, so that folks don’t go into withdrawal?
)
Posted by Jennifer on December 22, 2011
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Posted by Laurs on December 22, 2011
Marvellous! I am delighted that you’re doing this, if anyone deserves a break this festive period then it is you good sir…
Have a bloody great Christmas, see you in the new year! xx
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on December 22, 2011
PS LOVE the ‘winterval’ title … so you haven’t lost it completely!!!
PPS Happy Christmas to all Watsonians … enoy the festive season … look forward to renewing acquaintances on the resumption …
Posted by Suzanne aka Senior Watsonian on December 22, 2011
What’s all this then??? Watson being sensible??? About bloody time too …
Have a FANTASTIC Christmas … eat, drink and be merry … AND rest!!!
Have a WONDERFUL, very well deserved break and return with renewed vim and vigour!!!
We will miss you but we understand and look forward to your recharged (not in the criminal sense!) return … S x
Posted by Alex on December 22, 2011
” I suspect a few of you will, somehow.” Ha. Probably. Enjoy your break, merry Christmas everyone. xxx
Posted by lisan66 on December 22, 2011
Happy Christmas everyone! Have a nice holiday!!
Posted by Zoe Fell on December 22, 2011
Excellent decision, Mark. Please have a fantastic holiday, goodness knows you deserve it – we look forward to hearing all about it when you return.
Merry Christmas.
Xxx
Posted by h2osarah on December 22, 2011
I think you both deserve and need this break. We’ll miss you on your holiday, but we’ll be back when you get back! Merry Christmas and send my love to your family! xx
Posted by Sarah on December 22, 2011
Have a wonderful Christmas break! x
Posted by Rachel on December 22, 2011
I like this plan, Watson. Happy Christmas and Happy Holiday. x