Mary and Johnny drove me into Aberdeen where I could catch the bus back to Edinburgh. They had shopping to do so I hope they had a successful trip. My journey was smooth and comfortable. It was far less driech and the Silvery Tay was living up to its name in Dundee.

In Edinburgh I got off and browsed Princes Street a little before heading back home. I saw a busker with a most unusual instrument, stringed, and being played with a bow, but with a trumpet attachment. I wished I could give him some money and liked the music but my easy reach payment was card only and he had no tap-to-tip facility. I did have cash somewhere deep buried in my rucksack. I asked him if he was returning to the spot. He said he was so I hope to catch him again. I’ll surely be back in town again, I thought. Time to go home.

Back at home it’s been the usual mix of normal everyday stuff mixed with Christmas events and preparation. It’s not as busy as when we were working and had small children but it creeps up on you nonetheless.

We have had a lovely evening out with Jackie and Richard and a gathering of 11 which was an excellent “dry run” for their Christmas dinner and seeing if 11 fit comfortably around the table! Of course it wasn’t dry at all the prosecco and wine was flowing and the meal was sumptuous. And yes we fitted, even after two desserts and the cheese course!

Cath and Michael had us round, delicious fare as always and even though it was a ”school night” and only the four of us, Michael classified it as a ‘party’! We certainly had fun and the neighbour must have thought it was a party when she was keeking out wondering why people were merry in the stairwell after 10 o’clock.

The weather has been fair enough for winter walks and I have discovered The Water of Leith Visitor Centre has extended its range considerably at the café.That was a welcome find.

I told Bryn, who had once worked at their cafe, and he wanted to experience the lunch options so I was back there again the next day. We enjoyed the interactive exhibits at the centre as well as the food. There are some nice things to see by the Water of Leith inside and outside.

Peter met me for lunch to exchange cards and gifts. He introduced me to the Merchiston campus eateries and I was impressed with the vegan spaghetti bolognese. The staff were very friendly there too. I made inroads into Christmas shopping after. 

I finally feel all sorted, some wrapping to do, but it hasn’t felt too hurried. There have been moments of wondering if there is time for everything or worrying something might be out of stock but in the end all has been found for the day, by someone in the family, if not by me. 

Bryn and I put up the tree. Shane and Bryn put up the ceiling lights. Some perching was required and I’m not good with heights.

I have been singing carols this afternoon with my sister at a small carol service. Some extra audience participation was required with bells and ornaments. After the the tea and mince pies we had time for a walk with her son. It being almost the shortest day, though they are getting longer from now on, the sun was already setting as we set off. I was led on a different route and it was lovely to see the colourful Colinton tunnel in the dark. It looks like this all year round, it’s not a special Christmas illumination.