Emma Farquharson - Friday 23rd December 2011

This morning I found myself quite envious of Victoria-she was just sooo excited about going home for Christmas? She had been up since about 5am wrapping presents and as the taxi taking her to Paddington drew away, she was waving frantically, face beaming like a kid at a Panto’ -her shouts of merry Christmas echoing across the square! David, by stark contrast seemed decidedly down as he left for Edinburgh – I know he had such a great time last year and he confided last week that he was disappointed there had not been a repeat of the weather that had made travel impossible.

This afternoon I again found myself envious of Gianni -the new guy who’s been doing my colour at Toni & Guy- Such a sweetie! -He’s getting to spend Christmas day completely alone -just chilling with some good food, wine and a few Dvds.

Doubt I could get away with that but I think I shall make some excuse and at least leave it until Christmas day to head up to Hampstead.

Emma Farquharson-Wednesday 9th November 2011

The torch relay route for the 2012 Olympics has just been released. The final leg, to the Olympic stadium starts from Hampton Court Palace on July 27th, having gone around the world for months after being lit in Greece on May 18th.

It’s going to spend a mammoth 70 days travelling throughout Britain and apparently 95% of people in the UK will live within 10 miles of its route. Quite the tourist then visiting famous like Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge and even spending a night in the Tower of London! Meantime work-wise, we are expected to eat, sleep and breathe the Olympics…

There’ll be some amazing corporate hospitality going on …like the Sail Royal Greenwich tall ships cruise on the Thames, which is going to be an awesome sight for the three weeks.

Clients and guests will be treated to a scenic route, taking in the many famous London highlights while enjoying fabulous food and drink …

Emma Farquharson-Tuesday 18th October 2011

UK telecoms regulator Ofcom has produced a 300 page + report which shows the U.K to be a country of smart-phone addicts!

According to this new research there has been a 40-fold the UK have increase in mobile data services over a three-year period! More than a quarter of adults and nearly half of all teenagers in the country own a smartphone.

Amongst the reams of info’ about: mobile data consumption, telecom’ trends in Internet, radio and TV usage etc. are some snippets I found interesting;

• 37% of adults and 60% of teens admit to being addicted to their smartphones.
• 81% of smartphone users make daily calls compared with 53% of regular users.
• 51% of adults and 65% of teens say they have used their smartphone while socializing with others.
• 22% of adult and 47% of teens admitted using or answering their smartphone while in the bathroom.
• 58% of adult males owned a smartphone compared with 42% of females.

The majority of adults (32%) identified Apple’s iPhone as their favourite device, while the majority of teens (37%) prefer the BlackBerry.

Come to think of it, I have noticed people taking calls from the loo and texting during dinner is definitely increasing (have done that myself!) I suppose in an ever-connected world, addiction to mobile and Internet use should come as no surprise- I know in South Korea, there are even clinics for treating Internet addicts.

Hmm’ shall start my own observations beginning tonight…

Emma Farquharson-Monday 22nd September 2011

Have just finished reading a post riots survey report by JWT as part of their Anxiety Index series and it makes very interesting reading.

Generally people are more anxious than a year ago and don’t see the economy improving in the near future. Food prices, the cost of living and Petrol prices are key concerns as are Unemployment rates and the state of the economy. Nearly everybody asked had felt disgust and shock as initial reactions to the recent rioting. Decline in respect for others-Gang culture - Criminality - Bad parenting - Unemployment - Failure of authority - Poor education were all cited as multiple factors and I thought could have been easily predicted but a couple of things that came out of the survey were really surprising:

 In response to the survey question: Which do you see as a more criminal act? The rioters’ looting is seen as a worse crime (59%) than the falsification of expense claims by British MPs (43%)

After being so heavily criticised for their handling of the riots the Police came out of the report surprisingly well. The media had suggested their speed of response had been partly responsible for sparking the riots initially, but even the youngest respondents to the survey(18-34s) think they did a good job of policing (67%) suggesting some sympathy for the scale of the problem that confronted them.

I hadn’t thought about any affect on future peaceful protests but quite a few say they would be too afraid to attend now.

An overwhelming majority when asked say they believe the riots will happen again and frankly, I haven’t heard one person disagree with that.

Emma Farquharson-Wednesday 17th August 2011

Everybody’s telling me that Gold is the new risk free investment.In fact over in West London in the Westfield shopping centre, you can actually buy grams of Gold out of an ATM. It’s really popular apparently. Seems walking around with a few nuggets in your jeans is the latest feel-good thingy. Whatever... if it works for you. I’d be looking over my shoulder though wondering how long ‘til the looters catch on....

I suppose it might come in handy if the Governor of the Bank of England goes bust and can’t   ‘pay the bearer’ as per the ‘promise’ printed on its Bank notes. We used to have lots of gold as collateral in the U.K as just such back up- but it got sold off for peanuts ages ago by Gordon Brown.

Emma Farquharson-Wednesday1Oth August 2011

The Olympic Games are less than a year away and the streets of the Capital have been taken over by thugs and mindless morons!

Where are the police? Undermanned and scared stiff to use any kind of force-why? Because, it is highly likely that had water cannons or rubber bullets been used on Saturday night that they would by now be being pilloried over some spurious human rights issue and probably end up paying compensation to a gang member who would then become a  former gang member and earn fees as a consultant!

Time for the 'liberal trendies' to wake up and smell the fire-which is likely burning in their backyard!

 Emma Farquharson-Tues 12th July 2011

David and Victoria Beckham have finally got their longed for daughter.

The 7 lbs. 10 oz. baby girl was delivered by Caesarean section in Los Angeles. Victoria had elected for surgery as she had done previously with her three sons Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz. I am, like most people, happy for the Beckham's – who, most would agree, are a good family ‘role model’. However, David has confirmed on his Facebook page, after months of speculation, that they have decided their little girls name is to be Harper Seven Beckham.

O.M.G.!!

After months of speculation now, the guessing game continues as to the inspiration for their choice of names.

Some think Harper came from the fashion mag’ ‘Harpers Bazaar’ – an obvious possibility given Victoria's passion for fashion. It has also been suggested that the name may have come from a character in 'Wizards of Waverly Place" a Disney series, of which the Beckham big-brothers are said to be fans? Fans of the Jerry Seinfeld comedy have been reminded of one episode where one of the main characters, George Costanza, is mocked for wanting to name his baby ‘Seven’ but the strongest suggestion surely that it's a celebration of Beckham's number when he played for Manchester United is more accurate – if not as funny.

David meantime has posted a video message on Facebook saying: ‘Victoria's favourite book is To Kill a Mockingbird, it's a very strong, passionate book and the author was Harper Lee, and that is where Harper came from.’

As to their choice of middle name he said ‘The main reason behind Seven was it symbolises spiritual perfection – the Seven Wonders of the World, the seven colours of the rainbow – and in many cultures it is a lucky number,’

Hmmm........ good answers but I'm not entirely sure that I believe it?

Bookies meantime are offering odds of 66 - 1 that Harper, unhappy with her bizarre name, will change it by deed poll before she is 21.

Emma - Thurs 16th June 2011

If I am invited to Ascot next year I think I shall check the weather first. The Gold cup meeting today or `Ladies Day' as it is colloquially known, can be such fun but after heavy rain this morning it looked like it might be a washout. I never envisaged needing an umbrella and given the puddles and the mud-my wellies wouldn't have gone amiss.

Jimmy Choo shoes are not for walking in those conditions-that's for sure! Spirits were not dampened though and it was as crowded as ever.

I don't imagine many would call off from what is the highlight event on the summer sporting and social calendar especially today. Well the entire five days is a fashion show, but today is the day of sheer ostentation. Millinery masterpieces, designer creations and great for people spotting. I was pleased with my Noreen Philips hat which drew several compliments. It was certainly a great buy and quite honestly how many people are going to be shopping in Antigua?-she was a great find -well worth a visit again next winter.

There had been speculation as to what colour hat would be worn by the Queen, with most having guessed blue or Yellow but it turned out to be pink. I think the shade really suited her and somehow looked more modern? It was interesting to see Kate's mum Carole Middleton too, arrived as part of the royal carriage procession. Her hat was decidedly bland for such an occasion.

There are always so many amusing sights. My fav's today were a hat topped with a model of the Titanic and a man wearing a top hat made of stuffed birds? Slightly less amusing was a brawl that broke out towards the end of the day involving eight men who, it was later reported, were friends but some sort of dispute over a woman who had joined their party had resulted in a drunken brawl? That hardly makes for good press-but thankfully at least there were no arrests made. After 11mm of rain this morning, the going was officially deemed

`Good to soft, soft in places'. However useful that nugget was when it came to placing bets, it brought me no luck at all. I think Mark did quite well but none of us were taking it seriously. Helped by the Champagne no doubt and along with Liz Hurley (who managed to keep smiling even though her horse, Census, was beaten) I remained cheerful too!.

Emma - Sat 21st May 2011

Still pinching myself-can hardly believe how wonderful it was in Cannes. When Julia told me on Monday that I would have to be her replacement for the trip to the Cannes Film Festival I was just so surprised.

With her arm in a sling and on painkillers, it had been decided that I would accompany our `Boss' Nigel Scammell! With only two days notice, that was surprise enough, but when I heard we would be attending the Amfar charity gala at the sooo exclusive Hotel du Cap Eden Roc in Antibes on Thursday -I was just in shock!

Oh my gosh-then it hit me what to wear? A frantic couple of phone calls later and after a hasty visit to Browns and Selfridges I had purchased a full length satin jersey halter-neck dress by Cavalli. In a beautiful turquoise, with such delicate embellishments it's easy to see he is the grandson of an Italian master painter. Anyway- I thought -if it was good enough for Brigitte Bardot, to have worn his creations in St.Tropez back in the day.......

As it happened I ended up not wearing it at all. Well, soon after our arrival I had decided it would be inappropriate for me to adopt an `A-lister' role-I was, afterall, attending in a professional capacity as a guest of a very valued client( who was the most charming host) I had called Julia, to ask her advice, who thought my decision wise and so on the day I wore my Roland Mouret taupe, rippled crepe midi length dress which I had purchased earlier but never worn. Teamed with Miu Miu shoes and Chanel clutch I was pleased with my choice. On the night we were totally surrounded by pure glamour with `A' list celebs everywhere: Mischa Barton, Jennifer Lopez, Naomi Campbell, Kate Beckinsale and endless familiar faces. Jane Fonda, who must be in her seventies, looked remarkable. Wasn't taking much notice of the men but couldn't help spotting Sean Penn and film festival jury president Robert De Niro, who is also wearing rather well. Wow, everybody looked amazing. The dresses were gorgeous and fit everybody's physique so well.

This year's event "Cinema Against AIDS" was in part a tribute to Elizabeth Taylor, who died earlier this year and who was among the first celebrities to campaign about AIDS and HIV. Amfar chairman Kenneth Cole said of her:

"At the very beginning she spoke up when others wouldn't, said things that others hadn't and she was very bold and brave in stating her conviction," more than $10 million for AIDS research was raised on the night setting a new record .

It was a truly breathtaking evening I was in awe. I loved it!!!!!

Emma - Mon 9th May 2011

Arrived at the office this morning to a message to call Julia-she was in Barcelona at the weekend where she apparently slipped and fell in the hotel and has a fractured or broken shoulder-Gosh!

We only spoke briefly as she was heading to the hospital here to get checked out and confirm things....she said for me to `hold the fort' meantime...I was happy she would entrust things to me and I'll be glad to.

Have been pampering myself a little lately a reward for all my good work at the Gym. A spa day on Saturday. Had the works- literally head to toe-the Indian head massage was amazing.

Told Justin I wanted a new look and I'm loving what he's done to my hair- seems like a complete reshape or something? I never know what I'm really saying at the hairdressers, but he seems to know instinctively what I'll like. He's just split with his partner of five years and I found myself chatting about Paris too. He was intrigued and applauded my little bit of revenge antics. It's true; we do seem to tell our hairdressers the most intimate of things, I suppose in a way they are substitutes for therapists. Toni and Guy are definitely cheaper than any shrink though and I'm sure a lot more fun!

Emma - Mon 11th April 2011

Have decided after the weekend that really and truly the only way has to be up! When I walked into my parent's house on Saturday night I really hadn't been sure whether I would laugh or cry at my 'surprise birthday party '. In truth I already knew about it. When Christian had called me, out of the blue and invited me for lunch on Thursday, I knew something was afoot. I had expected some kind of advice perhaps and hated the idea that he was feeling sorry for me. However, when we met in Shepherds market and shared a bowl of pasta, he was decidedly twitchy and playing with his food as opposed to his usual wolfing it down, which was the complete giveaway. If only all men were as easy to read as our brothers. It took only a slightly threatening tone from me when I asked if something was going on and he caved completely. He had been just so anxious about how I might react to a surprise/shock that he couldn't let it happen - bless him for that - I was quite touched. So having agreed to 'fake it 'on Saturday I had some fun back at the house by announcing to Victoria and David (Tom wasn't around at the time) that I had booked a last-minute skiing break. The look on their faces though just made me laugh - poor things - they were simply aghast! I quickly told them that I already knew about the plans for the party and their look of relief was even funnier to me but we all ended up laughing. After chatting about it with them I decided not to tell anyone else on the guest list but to just go with the spirit of the thing. My mother had insisted that I be there for 8 PM but I simply couldn't resist being a little naughty and made a point of arriving late at 815 - by which time I had several missed calls and text messages on my phone. I really can't say how I should have reacted without any prior knowledge but when I entered the room the real surprise to me was that the sight of so many friends and family gathered for me filled me with an unexpected joy!. So many people, nearly 100 I think. Nearly all the crowd from Cambridge, Lydia, Isabella, Siegrid, Chloe, Helena, Kate, Jess, Petra and even Annie (who with three kids now doesn't get out much). A couple of the boys were missing (Simon is in Hong Kong and Findlay is in Johannesburg of course) but Hugo, Stephen, Oscar, Paul, Harris and Jude were all there.

Julia came and brought her son Zack along - just to say hello-as he was on his way to an 18th birthday bash somewhere in Finchley and she had wanted me to meet him. A good-looking boy, it's easy to imagine his father is too. She also brought Mark along with his wife Liz and Sarah and Finn from the office with their respective partners-whose names I'm afraid I didn't quite catch.

My parents had spared no expense with the marquee extension to the drawing-room replete with chandeliers. Oriental themed food was served from several wok stations and dessert came from an ice cream counter serving all things from a simple cone to Knickerbocker Glory!

A Cocktail table had been set up in the hall where a rather cute young bartender was showing off his skills with a variety of drinks on offer. Most impressive was his knowledge of award-winning cocktails replicating several, notably his `Mulata Daisy' the winning creation of Agostino Perrone head Mixologist at the Connaught. Even Tom who is a regular there and claims to be on first name terms with "Ago" was hugely impressed and gave a very funny impersonation of him, talking about what had seemingly been the inspiration for the drink:

"It takes me straight to a sun drenched Cuban street where I see a beautiful Latina flower seller walking past swinging her hips. The rich dark chocolate liqueur blends with the vanilla sweetness of the rum...."

Then grabbing his latest love, Diana, he launched into some Tango moves including a very impressive Gancho and finishing in a passionate clinch that left her quite flushed and taken aback I think.

I had been slightly worried about the music - my parents taste is sometimes questionable. The evening began with a Harp duo with beautiful vocals and a surprising repertoire. Quite frankly, I had never heard a harpist who played tunes from The Doors, Rolling Stones, Eurythmics and the like. Their rendition of "Something's gotten hold of my heart" by Gene Pitney was amazing. But then, just as we were into the food I spotted a four piece band setting up in the marquee area after that- things really started rocking. I got so many lovely prezzies and heaps of cards the most memorable being one which read: "In doggy years you're dead - Happy birthday" that came from Tom - well who else? and my absolute favourite from Julia with the Bette Davis quote "There comes a time in every woman's life, when the only thing that helps is a glass of champagne!"

Everybody agreed it was a wonderful night and no- I never shed a tear for "what might have been"

Emma - Tues 5th April 2011

Having been home for a few weeks and back at work I had avoided seeing the whole family together. Sunday being Mother's Day however, it was time to face them all at the traditional lunch gathering up at the house. My fears, that I would be interrogated, were largely unfounded. In fact it were as though everybody was trying so hard not to ask me questions as a result of which the conversations centred around themselves, the economy and bizarrely - royal lineage! Of course everyone was trying to spare my feelings, for which I am grateful I suppose. My brothers were unusually civil though - none of the usual heated discussions or provoking arguments. After lunch my mother and I had a chat in the kitchen which generally ran along the lines of "better to have found out now" and "you're not the first and you certainly won't be the last " for a brief moment I thought she were about to confide something?? Some past hurt or lost love - there was a flicker of sadness in her eyes as she spoke but then we were interrupted by my father, who had come to replenish the coffee pot! As I was leaving he walked to the car with me and with his usual peck on the cheek added softly:

"That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger" and that's as good as it gets!

I am stronger it's true.

Julia has just been so good. The first couple of days back at work had felt a little strange and I really wasn't sure how much anybody knew about what had happened. Apart from some general chat about Barbados and holidays etc the conversations had been purely work related. On the Thursday however, Julia had buzzed me to ask if I could manage to join her for a late lunch? My appetite hasn't been great anyway so that would be no hardship. At three o'clock I met her down at reception and as we walked out together she said we needed to talk. Sensing my immediate anxiety she quickly reassured me - no nothing to worry about - just some blanks to be filled in. A five-minute walk and we were crossing Berkeley Square, a few more minutes and we were entering Claridges? The magnificent Foyer, so beautifully restored just before the Millennium by the, now world renowned, architect and designer Thierry Despont is just a joy to enter.

You could become quite transfixed by the amazing silver-white light sculpture that is its centrepiece. Afternoon tea what a treat! Mouth-wateringly delicious finger sandwiches, pastries, raisin and apples scones with jam and Devonshire clotted cream and a pot of Darjeeling tea - English tradition surely at its best! It was Julia who started the conversation, reassuring me again that I didn't have to talk unless I wanted to but that there were a few things she thought I should know. Everything of course would be said in total confidence. Martin's behaviour had apparently come as no surprise to some of the men in the New York office where he was seemingly known for his polygamous outlook. Of course there have been others.

I almost winced when she brought up the web picture I had posted but with a grin she quickly told me that in most quarters it had been viewed with great amusement. I started to say that "perhaps I shouldn't have?" But she interrupted me- telling me I had "nothing to apologise for and besides superimposing photographs can be quite tricky-you made a good job of it". At that moment the waiter arrived with two glasses of pink champagne- "you may be interested to know Emma that Martin has now being transported - or at least been posted to our office in Sydney for the next six months"

Australia I thought, working under Bruce I wondered? Julia must have read my thoughts: "He'll be working under Bruce who you know from your time in Shanghai - a bit of a slave master and I hear the girls on his team are as tough as old boots" That made me smile.

I certainly felt able to talk to her after that but there simply wasn't much left to say was there? Julia on the other hand really surprised me with the news that she has a 17-year-old son!. I just had no idea - such discretion- such professionalism. She went on to tell me that Zack was the product of a relationship with a work colleague, not dissimilar to my own situation except she had been left literally holding the baby! The father lives in Vancouver and had seen his son only a few times until recently but she was now quite concerned that the relationship had shifted so quickly. E-mails had turned into phone calls and Zack now Skypes his father regularly and wants to visit this summer. `Oh what a tangled web we weave?'

Next week Julia flies out to Shanghai for the start of the Formula One Grand Prix. Ferrari are to host an exclusive dinner, then UBS will have an official event- both of which she'll be attending as well as the Porsche motor group cocktail reception (in advance of the Shanghai motor show) The closing party - a Sony production do-is to feature a Lady Gaga performance and catwalk show to be televised throughout Asia, Europe and South America! Sounds absolutely fantastic but I do know how she feels about the question of what to wear?

I was thrilled when she asked me to go with her to look at some clothes and as it was late night shopping I readily agreed. Selfridges, Browns, Bond street all beckoned ........but our first stop was the new Paul Smith store right there in Claridges of course!

Emma - Thurs 18th March 2011

Barbados, West Indies.

Julia was right; I really did need to get away!

When she called me into her office I must confess I was quite taken aback- not realising how much I had been affected and how much it must have shown. To her credit she did not "beat about the bush" coming straight to the point i.e. Martin had returned to the New York office and she had heard that it was 'over' between us. She didn't press me for details in any way at all but after what had happened, I imagine she must have been worried about my "flaky state" and I can see that in her position I would have felt the same. I can't recall our whole conversation, I was so afraid I was going to break down, but I do remember that my request, for a permanent position in one of the China offices, was met with calm concern and her saying that was something I should perhaps consider a little later. She told me to call her when I felt ready to return and not before, assuring me that my job was safe and that I was quote "Too good to lose over any man.!"

It was so good of Lydia's parents to give me the use of their home here. I think I had visited once before, during my first summer after we had met at Cambridge, but hadn't recalled how lovely the house was. Set high up on a Cliffside on the West of the island, with sweeping views of the coastline, in a couple of acres of beautifully landscaped grounds- complete with infinity swimming pool, tennis court, tropical garden and orchard!

Until yesterday I hadn't ventured far - my days spent with early morning walks along Mullins Beach, usually, with very few people around and basking in the Sunshine with only the Lizards for company. Hugo and Helen have been absolutely fantastic- always offering me the option for inclusion in their daily activities, whilst respecting my privacy and making it very easy for me to say no.

Monica, the housekeeper, on the other hand, has seemingly been unable to 'Take no for an answer' and has insisted on cooking for me. Despite my initial protests, her persistence (and it has to be said delicious food!) has won through..... Oh her coconut cream pie is simply to die for! I had lost track of days really but yesterday, apparently, was St Patrick's Day and Hugo, claiming some spurious Irish lineage, insisted I accompany them to celebrate! So we met up with their old friends Kevin and Roisin who are the 'real deal' hailing from the Emerald isle! After a superb lunch of lobster salad and champagne at their wonderful villa, we headed over to historic Holetown where an annual festival is in full swing. It celebrates the English colonisation of Barbados- when the first settlers arrived in 1627, landing between the 17th and 20th of February at Holetown. The festival itself has been going since 1977 and was originally held over a weekend, but became so popular that it now runs through a full week from Sunday to Sunday. I lost track of the amount of Irish people I was introduced to- Barbados after all has been tagged "little England"? Most were wearing green, a good few with Shamrock adornments and many more sporting badges exclaiming "I'm Irish for the day!" It was all so jolly, what with the music, sunshine and laughter and as I watched the sun set over the beautiful Caribbean Sea I suddenly saw a distinct, though distant, glimmer of light at the end of my tunnel.

I phoned B.A. this morning to reconfirm my seat for Sunday. It's time to go home?.

Emma - Tues 11th Jan 2011

Is nothing what it seems? How often does anyone really say what they mean or mean what they say?

Unable to settle or concentrate on very much I've found myself flicking through a book of proverbs and quotations that I don't think I've picked up since I was an undergraduate at Cambridge.

I am surprised that so many of them do not have clear origins and many are commonly misquoted-for example:

"Oh! what a tangled web we weave ,when first we practise to deceive" although often attributed to Shakespeare, is in fact a quotation from a work by Sir Walter Scott, (1771 - 1832) the Scottish historical novelist, playwright, and poet, popular throughout much of the world during his time. It comes from his epic poem `Marmion' published in 1808 and is about the `Battle of Flodden Field' (1513).

In `The Mourning Bride' (1697) a tragedy written by William Congreve, the English poet and playwright, there appears the line "Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned, nor hell a fury like a woman scorned," it is famously used in misquotation as: "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned"

Currently I find "Revenge is a dish best served cold" very appealing, the roots of which though remain of uncertain origin. However, another proverb, attributed to the Chinese philosopher Confucius which states, "Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves." has clouded my view somewhat.

Emma - Sat 8th Jan 2011

`There are none so blind as those who will not see'

I am sick to my stomach at the thought of how stupid I have been....... The price of Duplicity, Double dealing and Dirty-deeds must be high and cannot possibly be left unpaid.

Emma - Mon 28th Dec 2010

Christmas day was, in truth, a pretty boring affair. I left it quite late on Christmas Eve before heading up to Hampstead to find my parents not speaking to each other! Just what I needed I thought. We sat in almost silence and watched `This wonderful life', for the umpteenth time, but now a Christmas tradition. Christmas lunch was spent with my parents, (still not on good terms) brothers Giles and Christian with his girlfriend Tina.

No Aunt Laura either-she had called just days earlier to say she would be spending Christmas with an 'old friend'-who exactly remains a mystery.

The conversation was far from interesting. Giles now seems obsessed with the soon-to-be finalised Divorce from Annie. With his whingeing about the pending settlement and lamenting over how acrimonious it had all become I thought he was pretty pathetic. What did he expect? He's a lawyer married to another lawyer! A marriage like that was surely never going to end well. That's what I thought anyway but I managed to resist saying it aloud- the season of goodwill and all that.

Tina, the teacher droned on about cutbacks in education, child deprivation and the student protests. Christian just gazed adoringly with big puppy eyes......oh I suppose it's quite sweet really- I should be pleased for him. I tried to make an effort, I really did, but after watching the Queens speech, we saw the news film of the snowstorms that had hit the east coast of America covering it in a blanket of snow. My heart just sank at the sight of people stranded at U.S. airports. My worse fears were confirmed when I got back to the square yesterday and Martin and I spoke on Skype. All travel from the states has been severely disrupted and there is a backlog of delays. Rather than queue interminably at the airport day after day, Martin it seems, has opted for a much later flight which means he won't now be in Paris until the 3rd January!!

I was at first just furious-all our holiday plans -gone-just like that!!

Shouldn't I have been at least consulted? I was struggling to fight back tears- which frankly terrified me-the last time I cried I was a teenager! So, feigning indifference I said there was somebody at the door and hung up. When I called back an hour later I was quite calm and agreed with Martin that these were only dates on a calendar after all, we would have lots of time together later........... The reason for my serene approach was that I had already decided that I too could change my plans and that I would travel to Paris on the 2nd I don't start back at work until the 5th and so I can be there to surprise him when he arrives. I ran this by Victoria, who has just got back from Cornwall. It suddenly occurred to me to invite her along to spend a couple of days. I had to assure her that she wouldn't be in the way (just no comparison to Andy!) and she eventually agreed-so now our start to 2011 is looking a lot brighter.

Emma - Sat 18th Dec 2010

Snow is ruining everything! Martin says not to even attempt to come to Paris in such bad weather. He's due to fly back to the states on Monday and now I shan't see him until after Christmas!

Bad enough that he couldn't come to London last weekend as he had to work- I know I should understand - but I just couldn't hide my feelings and Skype is really no way to have a row. This is just sooo frustrating!!

Emma - Mon 6th Dec 2010

If I am honest, the weekend was a bit of a let down. Things were manic at work on Friday and I just couldn't get away. By the time I arrived in Paris it was sooo late and I was frankly exhausted. I was quite taken aback to find we had a guest joining us for the weekend. Martin hadn't mentioned the fact that Andy would be in Paris too. It was nice that he was in London last weekend and was able to come to our `Thanksgiving Dinner' but I had been under the impression that he was just there fleetingly on business and would be heading straight back to New York. I'm sure it is nice for Martin to have a friend around but I suppose I just wanted time to ourselves. He is perfectly charming and maybe I should have just enjoyed being in the company of two good looking guys. Andy is very attractive with a definitely athletic body - we drew more than a few glances at dinner on Saturday night -but a gooseberry is still just that!

We had booked ahead weeks ago and had a table for two at Senderens - Lucas Carton restaurant, which unfortunately for me were able to accommodate a trio! Martin has this ambition to visit all of the Michelin starred restaurants while in Paris and has been ticking them off systematically. One of the city's less traditional chefs, Alain Senderens has been critical of French cuisine saying it has lost its global position to the likes of Japan and Spain. He actually `returned `his Michelin stars but the rather haughty response was that these awards simply cannot be returned `Like unwanted gifts' and he still appears in the latest guide with two stars. The Art Nouveau decoration is original and just beautiful with its historically registered Louis Majorelle panelling, backlit mirrors and tables, and honeycomb ceiling. It is less formal than many starred restaurants managing to combine tradition with `cool'. In a great spot at the Place de la Madeleine, and with stunning views toward the church of the Madeleine, it now seems ,from a conversation at the next table which I couldn't help but overhear, that it is also now attracting `Da Vinci code' tourists. Certainly on Saturday night there were quite a lot of Americans and Asian diners and very few, if any, native French. Martin enjoyed the fillet of duckling, while Andy raved over the roast back of venison. My ravioli of lobster in a vanilla sauce could have been hotter but the dessert; with fresh figs, sultanas Szechuan pepper meringue & ginger ice cream was yummy!

On Sunday I was sooo disappointed too when Martin said that he would be going home for Christmas. Quickly adding he'd be back in Paris in time for New Year but said with a certainty that seemed to exclude comment? It's not that I don't relish the thought of us seeing in 2011 together especially in such a beautiful city but well, there was just no discussion nor even an opportunity for one with Andy around. I'm kind of wondering why I haven't been invited for Christmas too? Maybe we'll get to talk about it this weekend.

Thinking of having a little get together to celebrate David's graduation, well it was Victoria's idea initially but a good one. We haven't asked him, as we know he'll just say no, but have been in touch with Lucy who thought it a great idea and is organising invites to his MBA chums. I think he mentioned it being St.Andrews day recently too- so we're thinking of a Scottish food theme. Tom suggested deep fried Mars bars (he really does get worse!) Must get some food ordered though: Haggis, Smoked Salmon, Oatcakes and Island cheeses....... oh and of course some good Malt whiskies.....

Emma - Thurs 25th Nov 2010

Thanksgiving Day today and I can't quite believe it is a whole year since I shared it with Martins family in the states.

I sent quite a lot of e-mail greetings - I was pleased to find a very sweet, interactive card from the Jacquie Lawson website which I sent to his parents.

We have decided to have a Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday at the house?but I'm keeping it as a surprise for Martin. Have got a Waitrose delivery coming first thing on Saturday and have invited a few friends.

Toms friend Anna, who is a fabulous cook by all accounts, is making a Pumpkin pie for us and well the rest I think, is more or less like our Christmas Turkey dinners?

Yesterday I had lunch with Julia and a client over at the county hall Marriott .The Taxi back to the office took an absolute age as once again Westminster was brought to a complete standstill by a few protesting students. Bad enough last year when I was stuck for hours during the G20 riots!! I think the cabbie summed it up perfectly when he said "The three of us all pay our taxes why then should we have to put up with seeing Students -who we pay for! Burning things (police vans) that we pay for! And then listen when they complains we're not giving them enough money!!?" Quite!

Emma - Mon 11th Oct 2010

Another lovely weekend in Paris with Martin. I think I can say that, so far, the distance between us hasn't really been a problem. Euro star really is a doddle - I have no complaints at all!

I managed to get away after lunch on Friday and just got to St.Pancras in time for the 15:02 which got me into Paris at 18:17.Sunday was equally without effort- I left Paris Gare d' Nord at 19.13 and was back in London in 2hrs 15mins. Business premier tickets don't come cheap - return fare is around £400 but it's worth it!-I am in the frequent traveller loyalty thingy so I get points too and as Victoria pointed out -carbon dioxide emissions are 90% less on the train than an aeroplane Apparently it has been proven in studies that a Eurostar train journey from London to Paris emits 11 kilograms of carbon dioxide per traveller as against 122 kilograms per passenger from a flight - so all to the good.

Martin's apartment is in a fairly quiet street, between Madeleine and the Opera .It is ideally situated for shopping- rue de la Paix, Vendôme and Saint-Honoré are an easy stroll and the main department stores only a five minute walk. We attempted some clothes shopping -Martin said he needed some things-but honestly he is sooo, well American I suppose and we ended up at the Ralph Lauren shop!

I took him to the Opera Garnier - a neoclassical wonder which is literally just steps from the apartment to see the grand staircase and ceiling painted by Marc Chagall in 1964. I first saw it one summer school trip when I was about ten years old and just starting to learn French. I remember us gaping up at the nymphs and cherubs -such richness, velvet, gold leaf and the chandelier -which left us gasping in awe when we were told that it weighs over six tons!! Oh the thrills of seeing the world through a child's eyes?..things are never quite the same in later life.

Martin's apartment building is pure 1860's Haussmann- the guy responsible for the modernisation of Paris which needed, desperately, to reflect the industrial developments of the time and the cultural advancements. The city before Haussmann set to work had remained more or less unchanged since the middle ages -imagine! He rebuilt the city into a geometric grid with new streets running East and West, North and South bringing a symmetry it lacked beforehand. The widening of the streets relieved what was a very cramped city and it also allowed for an increase in height of the buildings, Running alongside the new roads, he planted rows of chestnut trees, and erected new public spaces and monuments to satisfy his vision of order. The revamping of the sewer system was an integral part of bringing Paris out of the Dark Ages-ready for the Modern era.

Inside the apartment is a veritable shrine to Art Deco-just gorgeous-I love being there!

I have my own keys and am free to come and go as I please -Tom has already hinted at staying there with friends during their Rugby trips-as if!!

I would love to bring Victoria sometime though-maybe for Christmas shopping?

Emma - Tues 14th Sept 2010

"At last!"

That was my Mothers' greeting to Martin when we arrived at our house on Sunday. I suppose she had a point but I had been so keen to go to Paris and see where he was living- so I could really imagine what he might be doing at any time of day - I don't think I'd been ready to share him either.

Everyone was very jolly my parents insisting that Martin call them Charles and Annabel. This, I think, after their initial surprise of his having addressed my Father as `Sir'

The whole gang had been wheeled out- well almost. We were eight when we sat down for lunch Martin and I, My brother Giles (minus wife Annie-the divorce now pending) Brother no 2 - Christian and new love of his life Tina, had made a space in their busy social calendar and to my surprise Aunt Laura was there, perhaps to make up even numbers?

The wines had been brought up from the cellar -a mark of an `occasion' in our house- those bottles kept upstairs being for general day to day consumption and not considered special.

Aunt Laura entertained us all with stories of her years abroad - Uncle Richard had been with the Foreign Office and there are endless anecdotes from time spent in Argentina and Africa- she is quite remarkable for her 82 years. Giles, in sombre mood said very little but Christian more than compensated enthusing, a little too much I thought, about American sport and Barack Obama! Tina, with whom it was my first meeting, seemed to hang on his every word-gosh I thought- it must be love! Tina apparently teaches at a primary school in Dulwich or somewhere south of the river and is devoted to her profession.

Hmm- the ability to handle children must surely be a plus when dealing with my brother! My Father was, as usual, a sweetie but I kept catching my Mother just staring intently at Martin whenever he spoke- as if she were trying to read his thoughts?..

Emma - Mon 16th Aug 2010

Martin had arrived in Paris last Thursday and we chatted for hours with only tentative arrangements for next weekend-depending which of us could be where etc - I was absolutely speechless when on Saturday morning I answered the front door to find him standing there!!

With Victoria and Tom away and David back late Sat. and out early Sunday we virtually had the place to ourselves and it was just lovely.

I dropped him at City airport tea time on Sunday and am just thrilled to think of him being so close now.

Emma - Wed 4th Aug 2010

I was so disappointed to return to the news that Martins trip has been put back for a fortnight-something about a pressing deadline for an important New York client- but on the other hand I have hardly had a minute since we got back last week and so maybe it will all be for the best.

Mark and I were expected at the office last Wednesday -we thought wrongly that we might have been given a few days R&R but were obviously mistaken! Julia has given us our briefing and is expecting three separate reports from each of us covering completely different aspects of our experiences and knowledge gained.

Apparently she wants to `contrast and compare'? The first one was due yesterday and I was up until all hours getting it finished.

Mother was upset that I only went for lunch and didn't stay over on Saturday night -well I was upset too-I had been soo looking forward to catching up with everybody and a tramp across Hampstead Heath again-but oh well, I suppose I can go up again at the weekend.

Honestly, this homecoming has not been quite as sweet as I imagined.

Seemingly Tom has been a bit of an ass lately. Victoria says he's been getting drunk a lot -feeling sorry for himself I suppose. I snapped at breakfast this morning after one of his clever quips-something about Martin's late arrival??sometimes I just can't be bothered with his sarcasm ?

Tonight I am heading straight home for a meal and a glass or two with Victoria - we've hardly had a chance to talk since I got back and I have really missed her these passed few months - hopefully she'll give me a complete fashion update too as I am feeling a bit out of touch..

Emma - Mon 26th July 2010

On our way home at last after a stop-off and hectic couple of days in Hong Kong!! It was good to see the place again though most of the people I knew in my time there have moved on -Justin and Amanda are in Australia, Peter is in South Africa and I think Brian Johnston (our then Boss) is now in Tokyo. Saw Lydia briefly. She came to the hotel with her two under five children in tow. Why is it people with Kids always assume others will find their offspring as endearing as they do? Quite honestly I find it no different to adults -some are just more likeable than others. Poor Lydia her conversation was fairly limited and frankly she looked worn out.

Fortunately they didn't stay long- she's hoping Richard will move them back to the U.K soon and we've promised to keep in touch.

Two hours into our flight home from Hong and Mark and I have been chatting about what we have missed most - obviously family and friends but for me I have been surprised by how much I have missed things like hearing the news in Received pronunciation English and Parks - I'm in Green park or Barclay Square most days at home-even if passing through and I can't wait to breathe in some fresh air up at Hampstead.

Mark has apparently missed his Dog, his Motorbike and meat pies??

Spent our last night at Mint-if I could only choose one party spot in Shanghai it would be there. On the 24th floor with spectacular 360 degree views of the City it has the most amazing entrance-a 17 metre long Shark tank with loads of Black and White reef-tip sharks-hard to beat for dramatic effect. I love the 7 metre high ceilings oh and the iconic Swarovski crystal chandelier -just stunning design. The epitome of Cool and Chic and most definitely the place to see and be seen with a perfectly mixed clientele of Chinese, Asian and Expatriates.

Mike and Dove had invited quite a few people, we had Bund view tables and the food was good as ever. Resident DJ Guy made sure the whole place knew our names and it was quite a lively send off.

I shall really miss that place!

Mark is fast asleep now -have enjoyed working with him - will suggest a collaborative effort when it comes to writing up our reports - have yet to hear exactly what Julia wants and when required. Hmm hope we get a bit of time??

All I can think of now though is Martin arrives in Paris on Thursday and we'll be seeing each other soon!

Emma - Thurs 8th July 2010

Haven't quite grasped the news from Martin yet -had to call him again today-but yes it's true he really is going to the Paris office for six months and will be there soon after our return to London. I was a bit uncertain about asking what had prompted this but for once he was quite forthright saying " I think we need to move things on to the next level whatdya say we spend more time together and see where it takes us?."

"Okay" I heard myself say but couldn't believe I had managed to sound so nonchalant ?- though actually ,having slept on it last night ,I feel quite pleased with myself about that.

We're due to leave on the 24th and go to Hong Kong for a couple of days before our flight out on the 26th.

We have been kept sooo busy here in Shanghai -Mike and Dove are working on a couple of reports together with Mark and me and we have all become quite good friends. It has been good to have another woman to mull things over with- I have missed Victoria and our late night chats.

There have been so many events and functions to attend - loads of invitations to parties, receptions and dinners that I've had to stop counting.

We are regularly taken out for dinner -all the cool restaurants-Laris, T8, Mint et al - I am honestly frightened to step onto the scales - I'm sure I must have put on sooo much weight!

Emma - Wed 16th June 2010

In the last 20 years, the city of Shanghai has been transformed into a glittering metropolis with a public transport system greater than London and with more skyscrapers than the city of New York.

Every year, foreign investments flow into this city-the average rate of economic growth in Shanghai is 12% per annum, faster than China as a whole. I t has now tripled in size and accounts for 30% of China's foreign exports; 20% of the country's manufacturing output is also from this region. According to analysts, Shanghai's economy will expand five-fold in the next 10 years.

It truly is an amazing city and though exhausting, I'm really enjoying my time here. Mark and I seem to be getting on Okay- which is good as we are flat sharing for the duration of this trip. We seem to be joined by somebody new each week though? Last week it was Jess, from the Hong Kong office, the week before was David, from South Korea and before that -well I have forgotten all the names.

We see Dove and Mike quite a bit and their Boss Bruce-they are all incredibly good fun and certainly party animals!

Our typical day starts at 9am and we're not quite sure when it is supposed to end. The apartment, we now know, is really not far from anywhere we'd want to be. We are only 2mins from the Metro, which we use everyday and it is clean, safe and reliable- just like London then- not!!

There is a small but comprehensive supermarket nearby, that sells some Western foods - which are not always easy to come by. It's pricey, but there's a good selection, and a well stocked deli. There's a young girl there who works in the evenings - she speaks some English and seems to want the practise -which is proving hugely helpful to us.

There are just so many people though -everywhere!

At the Expo' there are record numbers of visitors and the queues are unbelievable-thankfully we are attending with a government group and so get VIP treatment and can walk into each venue- but people are waiting ages- in some cases up to two hours .

I think The Chinese Pavilion is the busiest but the U.S. and British Pavilions are always crowded too. Yesterday evening the City streets were so busy-we literally could not walk the Bund for the throngs of people. Oxford street is going to seem quiet after this!

Emma - Wed 2nd June 2010

Can't quite believe we have been here in China a month already! Shanghai with its 18 million people is just an amazing city with great shopping and a brilliant nightlife if you have the energy!

We are staying in an ultra modern apartment building replete with pool and gym! We were so wowed by the technology employed throughout -e.g. one clap of the hand and the drapes close, the lights come on at dusk and the temperature automatically adjusts itself according to changes in the weather!

We have been kept busy though and are working very full days.

The Expo' official title Expo 2010 Shanghai China is being held either side of the Huangpu River from May to the end of October.

A huge International Fair the theme of which is "Better City - Better Life" depicting Shanghai as the "next great world city" in the 21st century.

China does nothing by halves and this is said to be the most expensive Expo in the history of the world's fairs - costing twice as much as the Beijing Olympics! The fair site, at more than five square kilometres, is the largest ever. It is set to be the most visited Expo' in history if the expected 70-100 million visitors from across the world show up-I think there have been over 12million so far. A large percentage of visitors come from rural parts of China-and with little or no opportunity for international travel the national pavilions on show offer them the chance to experience different world cultures.

Thomas Heatherwick's design for the British pavilion has been described as both `Outstandingly memorable' and as "extravagant national and commercial posturing" Most of the people I have encountered seemed to love it though and I'm sure they were not just being polite.

It is a gi-normous structure which to me, at first sight, looked like a giant hairy cube which has just been unwrapped and is still sitting on the crumpled sheet of paper. Hearing later, that it was indeed designed to symbolise a just unwrapped gift from Britain to China I was glad that I had "Got it" Getting closer, you can see that the round edged cuboid is actually formed by translucent wands which sway with the wind and are quite charming to see in motion. The "paper" part of the structure is a general gathering area for people and features performances and on ground level -under the edges of the "gift-wrap"- are offices and other boring bits?.

A series of installations are themed around: "The role of nature in British society" The other end of the Waving wands, inside the Hairy Cube, appear as a fuzzy glow and contain rare seeds from the `Kew Gardens Millennium Seed Bank Project', which aims to preserve the world's most endangered seeds. Heatherwick calls this space the "seed cathedral", he is quoted as saying "One seed could be the reason why your granny goes on living, or a whole country's economy can be based on a particular crop. Nothing could be more important than that."

Really? I have to ask - am I living in the same country, as I am unaware that the national consciousness has been stirred to such an extent and I can't help thinking he must be a friend of Prince Charles?

It is outstandingly memorable though and I can understand that we want to show ourselves as being more than the land of Harry Potter, Burberry and Football. Possibly the fact that I have absolutely no interest in gardening is contributing to my questioning the whole thing -but I am left wondering- how exactly does this truly reflect a modern, creative Britain?

Emma - Sun 2nd May 2010

Great flight to China -Love Julia for bringing us out not only in Business class but for using a travel service that fast tracked us through arrivals at Shanghai. It took ages last time but we just swanned through the VIP arrivals gate with some sort of personal assistant who'd been waiting for us?.

We are being so well looked after and the opening of the Expo was just fantastic??. There was a wonderful indoor performance with singers and dancers including the familiar figures of Andrea Bocelli and Jackie Chan. The outdoor entertainment which followed was just awesome!! A fantastic display of dancing fountains, lasers and fireworks provided us all with what the organizers described as the "largest light show ever attempted" No one could argue with that!

A pretty hectic programme though - not so much time to write?

Emma - Mon 19th April 2010

The Prime minister has called the general election! and from the polls and press so far, it looks like it's going to be all change for Britain.

Meantime, all flights over the U.K are frozen because of the Icelandic Volcano which is apparently spewing ash clouds that can, allegedly, clog engines and bring planes crashing down from the sky? Thank you Iceland -as if that country hasn't already given us enough problems!!

David seems to be stranded in Poland on his college trip.

I texted him - and having checked out the latest news, advised sharing a cab or buying a car to get to a ferry port.

I'm finding it hard to settle after the Easter break - all my doubts about Martin and what's really going on with us -the interrogation from the family hasn't helped - am I even reading the situation properly? Once again I am left wondering ??when will we be together again ?.do I actually have any say ? and why do I mind so much?!

Got a call from Lydia to say some of the old crowd are meeting up next weekend- Cambridge won both the Boat Race and University Challenge so it's a general celebration/reunion. Will I go up on Saturday- sure-why not?!

Emma - Mon 12th April 2010

Last week was just wonderful. A faultless flight and taxi transfer-(shared with a couple from Finchley) had me in Zermatt and checked into the picturesque guesthouse with amazing views by 7pm. Martin had arrived the night before and I hadn't quite realised that he would be travelling with a group- namely: two women-Carla and Dean plus three guys- Andy, Greg, and Ross. He introduced them as `some of the guys from Aspen' but I later learned they all lived in New York.

It was, for all of them, their first time in Zermatt and they were wowed! Greg is a doctor but the others are all lawyers - or at least in Carla's case works for a law firm.

Zermatt, the village at the foot of the Matterhorn, the worlds most photographed mountain sooo epitomises the image most people have of Switzerland. It has not only the highest ski area of the Alps-it is also one of the best developed with 17 Michelin starred restaurants at the last count. I Love the air -so clean and clear because for the last fifty years or so there has been a ban in the village on all but electric cars without combustion engines - a real world of its own. I confess I was somewhat pleased to have the advantage of knowing the place quite well and was able to share??When it came to skiing ability Greg and Carla admitted they were at most intermediate while the rest of us were confident that we fitted the advanced skier category- this was put to the test over the next few days when I think it was fair to say that Martin, Ross and myself were good but Andy excelled - it transpired that he had competed nationally while at Uni' and managed the 22km descent from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise at 3883m to Zermatt Village, the longest run in Switzerland, in about 12 .5 mins A professional, skiing flat out, would take 10!

I wasn't quite sure if everybody had realised we were right on the Italian border and my suggestion of Skiing in two countries went down a treat so on Wednesday, we started in our Zermatt ski resort which is also linked to Cervinia in Italy, and we literally began the day in Switzerland, had lunch in Italy and were back in time for dinner.! There are marked contrasts, between the border resorts- not just between the slopes offered but there is also a noticeable difference between Swiss and Italian skiers. While those in Zermatt are probably more precise and competent, the Italians really seem to go for it on the slopes -boisterously flamboyant but less technically proficient they are tremendous fun to ski with -even the cable cars in Italy rock to the sound of music blasting out of the speakers and people are animated in loud conversation. In contrast the Zermatt cable cars are generally quiet with skiers taking in the awesome scenery in silence. It was a great day and I think everybody had fun. My fondest memories though are of the all too few times Martin and I spent alone: Lunch at Chez Vrony at Findeln where we sat on the sun terrace and had a Rosti followed by probably the best brownies I have ever tasted!

Or the night we took a horse drawn sleigh ride from Lech to the little hamlet of Zug. Cuddling and snuggled under a warm blanket as we travelled by moonlight alongside the glistening river and sipping a gluhwein from one of the small hostelries on the way- it was a completely magical experience.

By the end of the week I had grown to quite like Martins friends (though there's just something about that Carla) We had a great last night in the pink jazz bar watching live music and it was agreed that we should all meet up again -perhaps next year?

Emma - Thurs 1st April 2010

Finished work early today because of the Easter weekend and headed to Selfridges for some last minute shopping for my hol's in Switzerland! Martin fancied Zermatt which is super and luckily I got a flight going to Sion, a new route exclusive to Snowjet and leaving from Stansted, which is an easy enough airport.

I was thrilled! - Just one seat left for Sunday though-would have preferred something sooner but with only one flight involved and huge savings on transfer times from Sion into Zermatt I snapped it up.! I think the whole thing comes to about four hundred pounds but that's with all taxes and skis etc-I really don't need any hassle with baggage at the airport - last year was awful at check in??.I am feeling quite excited but am missing Victoria who has already left for home -she is so good at wardrobe advice?..

The family are not too happy about my sudden absence at Easter -I refuse to be guilt-tripped but have conceded slightly and will go for lunch on Saturday. I am back on the 10th so have pencilled in the Sunday too.

Emma - Mon 7th Mar 2010

Work has been pretty intense lately but today we got the encouraging news that we were starting to hire again.

After `restructuring' and a 10% cut in the workforce last year this was good to hear! Pre-tax profits for the year ending in December had been down 23per cent and shares earnings had fallen?however the caution exercised for 2009 seems to have worked and unless there is a `double-dip' recession in major markets, which is not expected, things are slightly more upbeat for 2010. Of course it will still be quite a slog as we in the UK have felt this recession quite severely, and along with the U.S. offices have been hardest hit. It certainly had a positive reverb around our office and after work drinks were called for ? my day was made complete when Martin called and suggested we meet up at Easter for skiing somewhere in Europe ? Oh yes please!

Emma - Mon 15th Jan 2010

I was sooo surprised on Saturday when I took delivery of a wonderful bouquet featuring oriental lilies and roses- very sophisticated! and the card which read simply: `With Love, everyday -Martin'. He had just been on the `phone too -(we talk most days now)

Of course I displayed them in the lounge and they sparked quite a lively conversation - surprisingly mostly with the boys.

Emma - Sun 10th Jan 2010

Really enjoyed last night's drinks party here -things didn't get too out of hand and everybody helped with the clean up today - even Tom -without much complaint. We had intended to have it last Sunday but Victoria didn't come back until the 5th and David hadn't been able to commit to a date and arrived back late on Wednesday night. That gave me time to organise things without much interference though -plumped for Waitrose ready prepared foods.

Got a grilling from the family last Sunday lunch when I went home so have used the clean-up excuse not to have a repeat performance this week.

Honestly, why all the interest? Christian wasn't too bad but Giles was excessively curious and wanted a blow by blow account of my trip to New York. Even my Father, who has rarely shown any interest, was asking lots of questions and everyone chimed in when my Mother demanded "when are we going to meet him then?"

Truth is I really have no idea When we are together -well on the two occasions that is- things have seemed well, so intense between us but both times the parting has been quite matter of fact-kind of `see ya then'-non committal.

He has called me once to say he'd arrived and that Edinburgh had been a lot of fun. I had an e. mail last Tuesday to say he was heading back from his Parents house and they sent their regards etc. and today I just got another saying he was off to spend a few days skiing in Aspen with friends. Victoria thinks I'm too anxious and that distance relationships are always trickier - It was good to talk to her but I am none the wiser.

Can't stop thinking about Martin -this is now quite scary. I need to get some perspective here??? Back to work tomorrow -that should help.

Emma - Mon 4th Jan 2010

I had the most wonderful New Year with Martin in Scotland. An early flight from London City on the 30th Dec', was virtually hassle-free and had me in Edinburgh by 11am. I was so surprised to find him waiting for me -hadn't expected him at the airport but he'd hired a car on arrival and driven through from Glasgow airport. Prestonfield house is just such a perfect setting: Voted as Scotland's most Romantic hotel it was originally built as the grand baroque home for Edinburgh's Lord Provost in the 17th century. It is only minutes from the city centre but feels like an other world. Just this charming, wonderfully restored, country house set in 120 acres of parkland with a pair of resident peacocks!

A porter in a stylish black kilt greeted us at the door and on entering we were both blown away??by what can only be described as a homage to baroque excesses, crammed full with art and antiquities throughout- we absolutely loved it! Our suite was gorgeous-sumptuously furnished and one of only twenty odd rooms. The restaurant `Rhubarb'( the name dates back to the arrival of Rhubarb from China way back?)-not surprisingly ranks as one of Edinburgh's finest .Of course Prestonfields owner also has the now legendary Witchery by the Castle and Tower Restaurants. My favourite was the Tapestry room, I was fascinated with the series of 17th century tapestries that hung on the walls while Martin loved the plaster ceiling with its Cupids and weird & wonderful characters commissioned in the 1680's -it gave me the creeps though.

We `Glammed' up for the Gala ball on New Years Eve, he in Hugo Boss Black and me in Vintage Valentino- courtesy of my mother! The black tie event was held in the adjacent former Stables with additional Marquee and came complete with Bagpipes, Auld Lang Syne & fireworks!

We had a lot of fun and joined in the Scottish dancing with great gusto until ,that is, we did finally mess up with `strip the willow' which, come to think of it, is the dance that few really ever have the hang of. There's always someone who is taking it all very seriously though and gets upset when it goes horribly wrong. On this occasion it was a lady who looked a bit like gran'. When she started giving out, to her Sons - I mean a real rollicking!! Martin and I just couldn't keep it together and left just before exploding with laughter.

It was sooo cold as we stepped out into the night air but we stopped and watched the fireworks from the Castle in the distance. It had started to snow and the already magical winter scene was made all the more beautiful. Concern for my Mothers Vintage gown must have been showing on my face when Martin suddenly scooped me up and carried me the few hundred yards back to the house ?..

As we sipped our night cap by the roaring log fire in the Leather room- still panelled with the stamped and gilded leather original to the house,- I knew quite suddenly that I had never been happier in my life??.

Emma - Mon 21st December 2009

I was in Liberty's this afternoon for some Christmas shopping when I get a call from Martin who wants to know if I have checked my e-mails today and have I made any plans for New Year yet ? He then says he wants to be with me and has arranged for us to see in the New Year together in Edinburgh.

Oh my gosh! - I sit down, have a double espresso and check my Blackberry: `Flying direct to Scotland on 30th Dec. -Meet me in Edinburgh - three nights at Prestonfield house hotel - say yes. Martin x

Emma - Monday 7th December 2009

Have been back a week and still can't seem to settle. I know it's not jet lag the flight home, though overnight, was only seven hours and good old B.A. gave me an upgrade too. The truth is I had such a wonderful time with Martin that I am quite scared ?..

His parents, Estelle and Gerald made me so welcome and their home in the `Hamptons' was just this amazing mini mansion. When I arrived on the Wednesday evening it was just them, Martin and me and I realised there must be an `us' as I was grilled about my family history, education ,career etc in a way that only a prospective girlfriend for a son could be! Over the next few days things became quite hectic, with so many people coming and going, that I realised how good it had been to have had that initial time with them.

When we sat down to eat the main dinner I counted thirty people -mostly family and a few old /close friends. I was seated between Martins' brother George and his Grandfather Maurice Ellis -who insisted I should call him Maury as a result of which I found myself not calling him anything-it just seemed too familiar and just not a correct way to address a man in his eighties. He gave me quite a history lesson...The First Thanksgiving was celebrated to give thanks to God and the Native Americans for helping the pilgrims who arrived ( If memory serves that was in 1640) on the ship `Mayflower' to survive the brutal winter. - Half of them had already died, many more would have had it not been for the Native Americans teaching them to harvest foods. Thanksgiving Day, officially celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, now spans several days of holidays over the weekend. It's still regarded as a religious celebration by many families, but it's now also considered a secular holiday as well.

Before we ate various people spoke in Thanksgiving ?..it became especially moving when somebody mentioned a son serving in Afghanistan, Gerald spoke of friends lost in the 911 terrorist attack on the Twin towers in New York and Mr. Ellis senior remembered those who died in the holocaust-himself a survivor. Then the Traditional meal commenced and we had the jolliest time - Turkey and all the trimmings and Pumpkin pie which I'd never had -it was scrumptious!

I had intended to spend the Saturday night at a hotel in New York and even had a reservation but as we approached the city Martin suddenly stopped the car and straight out invited me to spend the night at his apartment - I made some flustered inquiries as to where it was etc ?.a loft in Tribeca and yes he did mean spend the night together?.. And the rest as they say is History ???

Emma - Monday 16th November 2009

Had a quiet weekend -On Saturday, after a quick zoom round Sainsbury's and Waitrose for food shopping had my hair and nails done then stayed home and spent the evening with Victoria -who seems quite exhausted these days. Microwaved Our `dine in for two for a tenner' dinners followed by Green and Blacks organic chocolate washed down with a bottle of Chablis (not the special offer Chardonnay which we decided we'd keep for the boys) We watched TV - an old black and white movie with Bette Davis and then caught up with episodes of `In treatment' recorded from the Sky Arts channel.

Gabriel Byrne the Irish actor who plays Paul, the psychotherapist, is quite a dish for an older guy and we are both hooked on the new series?

I spent Sunday up at Hampstead catching up with the family. It was good. Dad bemoaning the NHS, Mum raving on about Arts funding under pressure and the boys arguing about things in general -all reassuringly normal. Giles announced that he and Annie are having problems and that he is thinking of moving out?..can't say I ever really liked her?.but I'm a little worried that he refused to discuss it further. Must try and get together for lunch or something soon. Christian on the other hand wouldn't shut up about the new love of his life `Tina' -such an off-putting name - apparently we are all to meet her soon?

Today after our usual start-the-week meeting Julia called me back to the table along with Mark. I was sooo surprised at what came next?.it seems that -not only were the reports of our China trip favourable - (that had already been mentioned at the meeting)- but we were specifically being requested to come and work in Shanghai for the launch of next years Expo. Around 191 countries and some 48 international organisations will participate in the World Expo in Shanghai, which will run from 1 May - 31 October 2010 and is expected to draw over 190 million visitors from all over the Globe!

Julia wanted to Know if we'd be interested and neither of us had any hesitation in saying yes. The details were still to be worked out but the initial plan would be for a two month placement - Great!!!

I had been so thrilled to be in Shanghai last month as I never did get to visit during my time in Hong Kong. Until then my only experience of mainland real China was on a day trip just over the border to Shenzhen. Now though I will be able to sample real life in China -what a buzz!

The team in the Shanghai office are a mixed bunch -much like London-with Brits, Americans, Australian and of course Chinese ( mostly from Hong Kong I noticed, including someone I had met briefly during my time there) The Boss is from Sydney - a large guy in his early forties called `Bruce' -such a stereotypical Aussie name made me smile. He certainly leads from the front and was with us for much of our time there accompanied by Dovenia `Dove' (who spent three years in Manchester studying) and then there was Mike (Who I heard chose his name after Michael Owen the footballer - his Hero? - Oh Bless! )

During our brief visit we had been included in all aspects of the work going on - focus meetings, current campaign discussions and we even sat in on some client meetings.

Had lunch with Mark to chew over our news -just a quick bite in Prêt'- and will maybe celebrate with drinks on Friday- but we had to laughingly agree that "hey -we must be good!"

Emma - Monday 19th October 2009

Travelled out with B.A. -thankfully in Business - so the flight, though long, was reasonably comfortable with a surprisingly good selection of complimentary wines. I was slightly disappointed that I was making the trip with Mark and not Julia as I had at first thought but there's nothing like a long flight for getting acquainted with someone and by the time we arrived in China I had decided he was quite an interesting and intelligent chap and I was quite pleased to be working with him.

Our hotel was amazing -with every mod con imaginable and impeccable service -despite more than a little difficulty with the English spoken by staff (or Chinglish as it is affectionately known.) A bit frenetic not much time for sightseeing so whistle-stop tour of and only about half hour for shopping-sob! This City is just awesome!

We were completely `blown away' by our Shanghai office-in a brand new building all state-of -the-art techno gadgets and toys. Panoramic views over the river and city-must be a dream to work in. One of the highlights of the trip has been a visit to the site of the Shanghai Expo - which kicks off in May 2010. I think they told us that over 70 million visitors are expected over the Expo period. Apparently by 2010, 55% percent of the world's population is expected to live in Cities and so the theme `Better City, Better Life' focuses on exploring the prospect of future urban life. Seems like a good opportunity for showing on a global stage. Must check out Thomas Heatherwick, who is the creative talent responsible for designing the U.K.Pavilion.

Days have been very long starting with breakfast briefings at eight each day and finishing with a late dinner. The team here have all been very friendly and extremely sociable?.yesterday they insisted on giving us a send off on our last evening so we `went on' to the fabulous MINT nightclub and lounge - it was just unmissable but we are still suffering for it??. Hope to sleep it off on Plane home??

Emma - Monday 28th September 2009

Oh my gosh! Can't quite believe it?...hadn't even taken my coat off this morning when Julia calls me into her office. I actually thought I was about to get a rollicking about my `Staycations' report following last Wednesdays meeting.

I thought I had been clutching at straws somewhat but actually some of my ideas had gone over quite well ?.

The best was still to come though and when she nonchalantly informed me that I was to accompany her on the next trip to China I could only gasp with delight .We're off to Shanghai the week after next !

[Phew ...just quickly checked calendar for dates]

We will be back in time to for me to go to New York for `Thanksgiving' Thank God for that as I have already accepted and R.S.V.P.d Told Martin about the letter on Friday in an e. mail as casually as I could - I sort of sandwiched it between the events of the week and my plans for the weekend (both slightly embellished if I am honest) anyway he called me at nearly midnight and was so sweet about it. He said my name had come up with his folks when Miriam returned from her London trip in the summer and that he was thrilled when his Mother told him I was to be invited. Still not quite sure in exactly what capacity I shall be attending - but what the heck ??..

Emma - Monday 21st September 2009

Had an invitation from Martin- well his parents really- it arrived this morning by letter -as in `snail mail' very formal.

`The Ellis family would be delighted if you could join them for the Thanksgiving holiday celebrations at their home in New York?..' Gosh! Can't quite grasp this?. sooo unexpected!

Well I know Martin and I have been getting on rather well during his visits here -(three over the summer alone )and he had even talked about my staying at his apartment instead of a hotel if I crossed the pond for Christmas shopping?? but he has been so nonchalant about everything. Does this mean he has mentioned me to his parents? Oh maybe it was his sister Miriam -we did get on well when she visited London in July-came to the house twice?maybe I am to be her guest? That could be it. Oh, this is just so frustrating ?..!

Of course, if I am honest, this is the reason I am so attracted to him -he is so difficult to fathom. From the minute I was introduced to him back in February at the GQ. awards I have been unable to read him.

Never really sure what he's thinking ?..

This is quite unnerving me. Finally I meet a guy who ticks all my boxes and I feel this uncertain of what he thinks /feels about me?

O.K. I shall push it out of my mind for a few days and just concentrate on work - need to prepare for Wednesdays focus group meeting anyway. Have been pondering what shape or form staycations in the U.K. might take and I am not coming up with too many convincing ideas?..

Emma - January 2009

Looking ahead-Toms right -it's pretty impossible. Nobody's job is safe anymore -Fact - !

Thirty-odd people were laid off in our London office in January and somewhere in the region of 5% of all staff worldwide were to be shed before the month was out. Rumours and e-mails flying around don't help but basically I think the collapse of the big western car companies and the worsening economy have all meant reduced Ad spend and so with reduced productivity - there are just too many people for too little work .I think the polite phrase we're hearing is `pressure on headcount' which just means people have to go.!!

Kate, my boss, reassured me I have nothing to worry about- I think she like me as we had a great time at the Cannes Awards last year - I was sooo surprised to have been taken along on that particular jaunt -it was just amazing! Well, now she has put me on her team to work on a big U.K. account for a holiday/travel co. I really welcome the opportunity to prove myself and relish the challenge.

Starting to see David in a slightly new light-thought it was quite a bold and decisive step for him to take -leaving the Bank like that- don't think he enjoys London that much but I think he'll like studying at Cass -lots of my friends had a great time there and I'm sure his social life will improve - I'm glad he's staying around.

Emma - 16th September 2008

Yeh, it's tough out there. But you know it's been unreal lately hasn't it? The Americans may have coined a name for it but SUB PRIME mortgages amounts to the same thing as is happening here-all those 100percent loans doled out to people who when push comes to shove just can't afford it - it's not all down to the U.S. economy??

Anyway, it's just about staying ahead of the game in my job! Lateral thinking and all that- but at times like this I reckon the good players in the creative industries come into their own.