Santa eats brussels sprouts

JR still has a cough like a life-long smoker. Who had also been a miner since aged 14 and who had spent all the time in a smoke filled pub when not down a mine. But it's getting better...

I went to the supermarket yesterday. It was relatively painless, apart from Kate Bush screeching over the sound system. Noddy Holder is one thing, but Kate Bush??

I was round by the veges and overheard a dad saying to his son,

'Let's get some brussels sprouts!'

The wee lad said,
'No. I hate them.'

The dad and eye smiled at each other. And as they walked on Dad said,
'Santa eats brussels sprouts...'

This is obviously not true- he's a pie and pint man, so I said,
'No he doesn't!'

Fortunately Dad laughed.

Not sure if they did get any. There were plenty there. Actually, I love them.

I don't do the supermarket shopping much, but when I do, it's quite fun. Odd things end up in the trolley. Chocolate bears (didn't see any Santas), Jelly Babies (this was a request by JR), crisps, dates, Ferrero Rocher (for blipping purposes, ostensibly). As well as some tomato soup which just did the trick for tea/supper/dinner. Why didn't I think of it before?

Today we are going to the cinema. The Times have a two-for-one offer at weekends, which is too good to miss. But JR isn't fit to walk out in the cold. But at Fountainbridge cinema we can drive and park the car! We're going to see the Life of Pi. It was a great book, and for the Life of Me, I don't see how they can make a film. But if anyone can, Ang Lee can.

After that we are going to the neighbours for Christmas drinks. This was postponed from Friday. Bubbly will be on offer. Bubbly H2O for JR, but bubbly alcohol for moi.

I was cleaning my boots/shoes this morning and JR pointed out how nice and shiny they were. So I decided to blip them. I don't have much luck with shoes, mostly they're not comfy for a whole day, but these clompers have proved to be excellent. I always keep them clean. I am suspicious of people who don't.

If I was interviewing someone for a job and they were in a nice suit and were fantastic personalities and great CV and references, and I looked down at grubby scuffed shoes, they wouldn't get the job! Just as well I'm not a CEO!

The boots are in front of the old fireplace which may be replaced in the New Year. I still remember sitting there, looking at the sparks from the real coal fire, with my Grandfather in the 60s (and probably HIS 60s).