We were looking forward to few days skiing in Geilo, Norway, in between Christmas and New Year, but unfortunately, as I arrived with a broken wrist due to taking a tumble two days before Christmas, there was no skiing for me. So, while my husband and son were out perfecting their ‘carving’ (oh, how that makes me realise how far behind them in the skiing stakes I am), I’ve been stuck in the lodge.

Watching everyone excitedly pulling on their ski boots and heading for a day on the slopes gave me a serious case of FOMO (fear of missing out) on the first couple of days. However, I bagged a spot in the bar – quiet table in the corner with good lighting – and worked on my new novel. I’ve managed to write every day so managed to get to the 50k word count goal I’d given myself till mid January to achieve. I’ve also discovered that I can type reasonably OK even with an arm weighed down with plaster.

I’d love to say I haven’t minded at all missing out on skiing – and swimming , which is another reason we picked this hotel – but that would be a lie. However, I have really enjoyed the peace and quiet and the rare opportunity to get stuck in and do a few hours of uninterrupted writing. What was meant to be an active family holiday has become a spontaneous writing retreat, for me at least.

I’ve even managed some reading – which is an even rarer treat. I’m currently three quarters of the way through Lucy Foley’s The Hunting Party, which is bloody brilliant, and I can’t wait to find out ‘whodunnit’!

So, while my skiing progress might have stalled somewhat, at least I’ve managed to turn some of my FOMO into JOMO (the joy of missing out).

It’s also given me time to wander around – although largely inside since I don’t fancy taking my chances walking on the ice – and taking some snaps, which I’m sharing here – such a pretty place.

Happy New Year and may 2020 bring you more JOMO than FOMO!