I've finally summoned the energy and enthusiasm to bring The Journal up to date. We have had a quiet and relaxed few days ... and will probably have a few more before the New Year!
So here is a quick run through the highlights.
Wednesday, 24th December
The day was cold and dry, and I was finally feeling somewhat more energetic after the lingering chest infection.
The morning saw me wander out in to the garden, with secateurs in hand, and wander over to the raspberry canes. I spent an hour or so pruning the canes and tying up the stems that will hopefully bear fruit next year.
I then headed up to the orchard with the prunings. These were deposited on the bonfire and, for some strange reason, I decided to check the chicken coop nest boxes.* I was surprised, and delighted, to see that one of the Norfolk Greys had come in to lay and had left us two early Christmas presents.
In the afternoon we headed over to Alcester for a game of Waitrose Lucky Dip.
We were somewhat apprehensive about what might be left for our Christmas lunch, but we need not have worried. There was food in abundance and tomorrow we will be dining on a rib of beef, roasted medium rare and served with roasted vegetables.** The meal will be topped off with a Tiramisu dessert.
We both agreed that this was a great way to approach one's Christmas lunch ... don't get any fixed ideas and enjoy the surprise element!
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* I rarely do this in the Winter, when the girls take a break from laying.
** The veg patch will provide the carrots, cabbage and parsnips
Thursday, 25th December
We had a gentle start to the day. Breakfast was croissants and coffee, and the triple yellow* wheelbarrow was unveiled to the delight of 30%.
Late in the morning we headed over to spend a couple of hours with 30%'s side of the family. They were being hosted by 30%'different brother, Stevie.
On our return we took the dogs over to the local exercise field. The had a happy hour chasing after tennis balls before we returned home and the beef was put in the oven.
The two of us shared a lovely meal, before settling in front of the fire and continuing the tradition of moaning at the crap on television!
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* A yellow frame, a yellow 85 litre pan and yellow handlebar grips!
Friday, 26th December
Boxing Day was even lazier than Christmas Day.
We did take a wander down the lanes with the dogs in the late afternoon, but, other than that, we spent the day lazing at home.
One might assume that we spent the day stuffing our faces with food and drink, but we were actually very restrained. There was a splendid beef sandwich and a couple of glasses of decent wine, but we were the very spirit of moderation.
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