Christmas/New Year Blog

At my brothers this year with Turkey and all the trimmings beautifully presented by daughters and Mum. Memories of toddler Joseph upturning  unwrapped box and emptying out his new farmset complete with square wooden cows and brown plastic fencing. Intelligent use of this fencing as a ladder enabled pink pig, and square cow, easy cushion to floor access.

A call from Ireland later in the afternoon from Grandson Kaden announced with frantic excitement, "Grampy Steve, Grampy Steve, IT'S CHRIIIIISTMAAAAS". Well if I had not quite grasped the fact, this phone call made sure I knew for certain the festivities were now in full swing.

A quiet Boxing day walking in blue December crispness with Barbara. Then a move from Salisbury to Redhill and the lively household of my recently retired sister. Another full and groaning Christmas fayre table was eagerly attacked, consumed and reluctantly left by all and sundry, some of whom swore once more to never again indulge in such gluttony.

Barbara and I stayed on at Redhill enjoying the family atmosphere.

A day out 'wandering the streets of London'  had both Barbara and I in childish glee as we marvelled at the Oxford street lights, street entertainers, theatre land, and the fact we could just wander into a music shop and bash out 'Auld lang Syne'  on a nine thousand pound Yamaha organ. The day was a special treat for us as for once Tanya was left behind with very capable dog sitter and dog walker Carolyn.

A lively New Years eve outing and eating followed with my sisters/husbands long term friends. Barbara's fiddle and Jim's guitar did a surprisingly good job of entertaining us when you consider the alcohol consumed and the total lack of any previous rehearsals.

Barbara, now safely back in Scotland, is snug in her wee cottage while I, on my own and travelling again, snuggle up in Foxy10 on this cold cold January night before the Dover ferry whisks me away to Euroland.

I've spoken of it before, the first few days of travel after being with, and so enjoying, family and friends. This time is no different. If anything it is tougher as Barbara and I shared a close family festive togetherness. Something not experienced by either of us for many years. So tonight, and for the next few nights, I know I shall be fighting a sort of lonesome 'poor me' state of mind and body until I settle once again into  'New adventure' and 'I love travelling'. Tonight's comfort  meal of 'Motorhome cooked' sausage and mash plus onions and mushrooms has certainly helped raise the mood. Trouble is there is no dishwasher anymore and no one to scrub the pans cept yours truly. Tanya is happy though, care of a Pets at Home gift voucher from my  sister Judith. (Thaankyooooo) She is, as I write, snoring away in her brand new golden fleece snuggly bed. That's Tanya of course, not my sister.... I don't think she snores..... and I don't think she has a golden fleece snuggly bed either.

Now about this washing up...... Awe damm it... It can wait till later.... Nice cup of hot chocolate first ..... Sounds a good plan to me.... Anyone disagree..... Nope... Ok then let's get that kettle on.