Boxing Day

Merry Christmas (only a day late!)

Just about finished tidying up the Christmas mess! Christmas at home follows the same pattern every year, which is probably what makes it so enjoyable. We went to church in morning, which is always a nice service. Mum was playing the piano, the vicar walked in with a selection of hymns and the congregation (led by mum) just sang what they wanted to sing. So instead of singing In the bleak mid winter (new tune), we sang Good Christians awake (The Yorkshire Carol) and O Come all Ye Faithful instead of Angels from the Realms of Glory! I suppose the pianist has ultimate control over the hymns. We then visited a friend in the village, we've been round on Christmas morning every year for as long as I can remember. Every year we take a photo and promise to see each other more times a year than just on Christmas day! Next its off to home to prepare lunch and open presents, before eating dinner...

Pretty much finished packing for the travels now. Complete with all the things that I've been given as pressies (antiseptic wipes, torches (x2), travel towels (x2) and wallet). I just need to pack a small bag of things to take to London for a few days before I go- I can't be wandering round in shorts and T-shirts for New Years Eve!

It will be nice to go now, really looking forward to waking up and not seeing a grey sky or having to wear a coat. Although I am very sure that I will miss the greenery and the Dales stone buildings.

6 Days left...