Sam guards presents under the tree

It’s been a different Christmas this year, the first just the two of us without guests or visitors. It’s been very pleasant. We hope your day has been as enjoyable as ours.

Out fairly early for a 5 mile walk in the mizzle around Mote Park, back to cook dinner, open presents, have a glass of bubbly and nibbles. Saw the Queen live at 3.00pm for the first time ever.

A relaxing afternoon watching TV, taking to family later, much later in the case of the west coast of America.

Still more eating to do. Christmas cake, trifle and probably a wee dram to wash it down.

Thank you for all your good wishes for today. And for your comments on 4144.

We bought Sam at a market in Leyburn, North Yorkshire many years ago. Dad bought one as well. His name was Bob. Sam has stood patiently as sentinel and guard in our house for many a year.