Christmas Lights

In the Bleak Midwinter, Frosty wind may moan, earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; snow had fallen, snow on snow.

Trip to Kingston Lacy

A lavish family home, re-imagined as a Venetian Palace, in the Dorset countryside. That is the official description of Kingston Lacy. Every year they light up the gardens and house with a brilliant light display, sadly the price of entry is not worth the experience for us anyway. We are members of the National Trust and are loath to pay an extra £ 42.00 to see the lights when Bournemouth lights are free and hopefully just as spectacular.

We did take a walk with JB last weekend and as it was late in the day with the sun setting, we did see some of the display until we needed to vacate the property before the paying visitors arrive. I never get tired of visiting this property and am always amazed at the gardens and the historic atmosphere you feel.

Lights for Christmas

Last night we travelled to see the Bournemouth Christmas Lights. Thinking about it, we last went before Covid struck, seems just yesterday. Anyway, the weather was kind to us, with no snow or rain and the wind was a light breeze. We started the evening with the traditional pint and Bratwurst. The only way to do it, some did have pizza but that was not where our hearts were. Michael bumped into Rose, an old school friend, doing her PhD in Marine Biology. Her bubbly personality lifted our spirits and we set off to see the lights of Bournemouth Gardens.

We were looking forward to sparkling tunnels of light, giant displays and glistening trees covered in bright colours. For a moment of reflection, gaze at the larger-than-life illuminations and maybe feel the magic of Christmas along the way.

I must admit being a little underwhelmed, we did expect to be dazzled but that was not to be. Don’t get me wrong, it did have some unexpected light displays and it was not too crowded. In my heart, the bells were ringing out for Christmas Day and a choir was singing songs of Christmas.

Reminds me of that song by The Pogue.

The boys of the NYPD choir were singing Galway Bay and the bells were ringing out for Christmas day

On that note, I need to wish the guys and dolls from Tanzania a very Merry Christmas and all the best for a great New Year. It has been many years since we have seen them and from all accounts, they are doing well. Hopefully, the New Year will bring us together for a wee glass of wine and some idle chatter. Always difficult when your family is so far away but we think of them often and reminisce about days gone by. Have a good one brother, we miss you and all our love to you all.

Lest we forget my darling daughter and her extended family in Australia. We will miss your sunny disposition and the sound of wine glasses toasting the good times. Over the last few weeks, we have done some fantastic activities, wreath making, gingerbread house building and the now traditional burger night with a festive twist and have missed you all and have lifted a glass in your absence. Have a great Christmas and hope to see you soon. No daggers just love.

With all the industrial unrest at the moment, it was a beacon of hope for next year. Seriously, almost anyone who has a position in the civil service is on strike. We do need Margaret Thatcher back, our members of the cabinet are all too scared to do anything for fear of being dismissed, prime minister included. Makes me wonder why we have descended into a Banana Republic type of government.

The other news from Tarrant Close is that Susan donated blood 50 times and has now received her certificate and lapel badge. She is really happy with the award and wears the badge all the time. Jokes aside, I am sure that her blood has gone a long way to helping people stay alive. Well done.

Merry Christmas to you and all those you love.