Last minute changes to government restriction meant that my Christmas wasn't quite as planned, but thankfully we were still able to spend time with family. I experienced my first Polish Christmas (Wigilia), managed another successful Christmas pudding and cycled again to the centre of town to check out the lights. Things looked pretty different than they did in April.
Whilst things were different this December, this was more a continuation of the year we have had and are now fairly used to. It's frustrating how last minute the decision was from the government but we should really be used to these U-turns by now.
As 2020 comes to an end, we all look to 2021 with hope and expectation for a better year.
Christmas Prep
I missed Stir-up Sunday slightly as I was not able to find my pudding basin. In lieu of the proper equipment, I used two separate pyrex dishes. This ended up being fortuitous as I was able to deliver the smaller one to my mum and dad and keep the larger one for us. I persuaded Victor to watch Last Christmas, which was a weird film with the premise based on one line of a Wham song - tenuous.
We decorated near the beginning of December, and yet again a new look for our fireplace.
Light Fantastic Train
In between lockdown 2.0 and tier 2/3/4 we were able to keep our plans on the Light Fantastic train on the Epping Ongar Railway. It was good fun and the train was lovely and warm and comfortable. A nice festive way to kick off December,
More Days at Home
I managed to finish my Christmas bunting, which is decorating the kitchen. We managed a meal our at the local pub - although they didn't have mulled wine so I had to be content with mulled cider.
I cycled along the river once more, Craven cottage renovations coming along well. Bought these new sparkly, spotty tumblers which I absolutely love! We invested in a monopoly board, which I of course lost the first game of :-(
And finally I went into central London to see the lights, which were a bit lame on Oxford street but Bond street shops had made more effort. Also honourable mention to Fortnum and Mason for their advent calendar decorations.
It was all a lot busier than last lockdown, despite being in tier 4 and no shops open. The difference being, people there to see the lights, plus more businesses having now been able to adapt and offer take away. Last time I went to Covent Garden it was closed, and empty. This time, a few restaurants were open for take away drinks (and probably food). Buck House also looked quietly majestic as I passed her on the way back home.
It's CHRISTMAS!
Photos in order:
1. Was stitched up by my brother and had to transport this 16kg on my bike from Dalston to Wandsworth.
2. Christmas Eve tipple of my favourite whisky drink.
3. Christmassy jumpers of Christmas Day
4. Barszcz
5. Zupa Grzybowa
6. Carp, Salmon, salad and potatoes
7. Christmas Day breakfast with homemade hollandaise
