Christmas Day really started on Christmas. Headed off at 10:00 p.m to Westminster Abbey for the midnight mass. Scored reasonable seats in the nave which meant we could see the procession, blessing of the cradle etc but of course most action took place beyond the screen. We could see glimpses of the action, just as the lower orders did back in the day. Bit of extra significance in that it is 950 years since William I (aka the Conqueror, aka the Bastard, aka Duke of Normandy) was crowded in the Abbey in 1066. Though strictly not this Abbey as current building was begun in 1245 by. Henry III.Massive change in architectural style in the 100 years between the Abbey and St Barts.

The service was magnificent. For us, high church – incense etc. The choir was incredible backed up by superb organ playing. Found it quite emotional.

Had thought we’d walk home as there is no public transport on Christmas Day but cold wind so we managed to grab a cab.

Christmas started quietly with the thre of us for presents and brunch. Joined round 1:00 by Sarah, Geoff and Rachel and by Sare’s mate Siobhan and her sister Gina who was visiting from the States (while not being an American citizen so was there free not held accountable for Trump etc). Drinks, presents, first course.

Then a walk over to and around Mayfair and back for the main course, dessert, quiz, charades ……..Great day!

Today being Boxing Day, my main focus was to avoid any sort of shops and sale crowds. I achieved this by staying in bed until 11:00, reading in front of the telly for a couple of hours, reading on the bed, bit of a snooze. Sarah and Geoff wandered over and it was off for a traditional British Thai meal. Delicious.

Again: WE LOVE LONDON!

(and I think London loves us,,,,,,,,)