Candles in the afternoon

Just because I felt like it, as you do. This is our christmas tree - small and perfectly formed.

One of the cards that arrived today was from the old school chum of Roland's who sent me a card a while ago saying how much he was enjoying looking at my Blip photos. Inspired by me (!) he's now splashed out on a 'proper' camera, enrolled on a photography evening class and plans to start Blipping in 2012. I really hope he starts blipping very soon and doesn't get caught up in that 'I'm not good enough yet' syndrome. He can be assured of a warm welcome.

Some of the Occupy sites in the UK have closed for the winter - not surprising given the freezing temperatures - and set up alternative meeting places. It's not clear at the moment what will happen in Norwich but even if the camp closes temporarily the consciousness of the people of our city has definitely been raised by the occupation. Reactions from people I've spoken to about Occupy have varied immensely from interest and support to - well, downright venom: as if I've suggested they sell their souls. Hey ho, slow and steady does it.

At the homestead we have a slight duck problem. The game butcher that Roland took the ducks to said he couldn't pluck and prepare them due to environmental health regulations, which was a bit odd as I've been in there when folks have gone in with fully feathered (but dead) birds and handed them over to be 'dealt with'. Rol is now consulting a Good Housekeeping cookery book, Mrs Beeton and a friend of ours who has a bit of experience in such things. Plan B is that if the duck plan doesn't work out we'll have sausages in red wine and mash for christmas lunch, which is what we were going to have anyway. I'm keeping well out of the way, as I did Latin at school instead of domestic science.

And tomorrow afternoon it's the twangers get together round at Neals. Apparently we will be watching a ukulele-themed film and quaffing wine. Alas, I will miss 'Christmas over Europe' on the radio.

In the evening we have a friend coming round for dinner so I must not get pissed in the afternoon.