Festive Gathering

Andy’s son arrived into Southampton from Edinburgh at lunchtime. Andy collected him and they came home to catch-up with Merlin and I. Then we bundled into the car for a trip to London to visit Andy’s family - first his stepmother and then all of us - 12 adults and 5 dogs - at his sister’s house in Twickenham.

It was a happy affair catching up over a delicious Chinese meal and chocolate birthday cake (two in the party had a birthday this week). Both Andy’s sisters lead international careers and their children are embarking on studies and careers so it was an interesting mix of life stages, personalities and interests. Merlin was thrilled to be in the mix, trotting from group to group inspecting the proceedings and ensuring no food went to waste. We got home just before midnight which is late for us these days!

This picture is from my morning dog walk. It’s all I have photographically for this day. But I think it illustrates the importance of the sky at this time of year, the light, patterns and colours, which are often in such contrast to the land.

Grateful today:
- To Andy for driving us to and from London.
- For happy times with family.
- For stimulating and refreshing conversation with those less than half my age and those very much older than me.