I thought there were meant to be seven.

Went to bed at a reasonable hour last night and couldn't sleep.  In the end I gave up and went on reading a book on the Spanish Civil War.  Not exactly comfort reading.  It was five o'clock before I slept and nearly ten before I surfaced.  Went up to the Pillars to buy extra milk and bread. I don't want to run out.  Then drove to Charlottetown gravel pit but didn't stop as there were quite a few parked cars.  Went on to Birnie expecting it to be busy.  There were cars but it was emptier than usual and I parked thinking I would be able to photograph birds.   Only one problem, I had no bird seed. This is practically unknown.  I always have a bag of sunflower seeds.  Saw the swans however and was amazed to see five cygnets.   They did well to raise such a big brood.  There were seven but the male was at a distance, keeping guard on his family.  Came home pleased that I had some photos.  There was no sun but a few blue patches in the sky and the Met Office is forecasting a sunny day tomorrow.  The perfect Christmas present.  Chatted to Andy who was out inspecting a leaking gutter then went in to have lunch and continue with my book. Remembered to take tomorrows lamb out of the freezer and some smoked salmon.  Smoked salmon has been part of Christmas dinner since it was a hard to come by luxury.  A clump of last minute cards arrived and a nice long letter from an old colleague from my London days.  Good to hear she and her partner are well and get all their news. All my friends seem to be doing OK and long may they continue to do so. Best wishes to everyone on Christmas Eve.  I hope the sun does shine tomorrow and you all have a lovely day.