Christmas Boxes

Yesterday was Bob’s last proper ‘day off’ for 3 weeks. We went over to Ashby-de-la-Zouch in the morning, to wander the charity shops, and visit the factory shop at Soap Factory [closing next month] Not many bargains to be had today though. Then I did some serious fridge cleaning- and made a huge casserole with the veg and sausages I found there!

Last night Bob helped me fetch all the boxes down from the loft [and he fixed a loose cable in the lounge and vacuumed the carpet too] so that I can get the decorations up this week.

I have, as usual, purchased a new ornament for this year. My annual ornament has generally been ‘from the family holiday’ – but this is from my trip to Belfast last month. A very special memento of a fabulous weekend – not only does it represent Christmas Joy – but also, the time with Mags and co was full of joy and laughter, and when I spoke at her church, my theme was ‘Joy’ too.

I have been busy with the Brasso too, polishing great-grandma’s lamp – in the corner of the dining room behind the Christmas Cake.

This afternoon we have our Ladies’ Fellowship Carol Service, and once that has happened, the roller-coaster that is our Church Christmas Calendar will really begin to pick up speed! The first full week of Advent and GITP is feels like the slow climb to the top – and from here on in, it will be just whooosh! till I sit down for Christmas Lunch on December 25th!