It is with a sigh of relief that I write this evening.
Today has been such a lovely day of relaxing and enjoying the company of only those who reside here. After all the stress of the past week it is a pleasure to have a moment to exhale and take account.
Our Solstice and Christmas celebrations have now transpired and I am most pleased to say that both were smashing successes. Michael missed the Solstice party due to being physically unfit to attend. He was dearly missed by our guests, in particular Ms Liz's boys and Ms Tamsin, who inquired after Michael at least twice that evening.
The Christmas party took place on Saturday evening and ours was a full house indeed. Of all those invited only one was unable to attend due to a death in the family.
Thankfully there were no true c*ckups. Apart from the goose liver pate being a bit on the salty side for some, and the large serving tray of assorted nuts being very nearly tipped over by Michael(not once, but twice), all went according to plan.
My father popped in for an hour after visiting his old bowls friend, Chester, in Brandon. This was a totally unexpected surprise which pleased Ms Victoria emmensely. I must admit to being a bit unnerved at first but as it turned out there was nothing to trouble myself about.
In the end Father complimented the wine selection and my general presentation of our home to receive guests. I needn't tell you I was quite touched. Father is a renowned perfectionist when it comes to the coordination of festivities in a stately home. It was inwardly pleasing to be awarded his seal of approval.
Father also spent a fair amount of time speaking with Michael. Michael assures me it was strictly financial talk, but I find that difficult to fully believe. I kept a keen eye and did notice quite a burst of laughter from the two of them at least twice during their conversation. How can taxes and/or various other accounting matters be at all humourous? However, I suppose Michael does possess the innate ability to make even the most mundane topic a point of hilarity.
My parent's Christmas do is this weekend. It is actually the last formal celebration in our diary this year. As I mentioned in the previous post, Michael shall attend with me. I am less nervous about this now. The boy conducted himself very much like a gentleman last evening and I suppose lightening has been known to strike twice on occasion. 
Before closing, I will say that our carolling concerts have been wonderful for both the entertainers and the entertained. Both Michael and I have greatly enjoyed socialising with the ladies and gentleman in the homes.
If any of you have opportunity to give a bit of your time do try to get out and visit with the elderly, many of whom have simply been forgotten or have had all their friends/family pass on before them. What a wealth of life history they have to share.
Michael was pleased to talk to some WWII veterans who told him about the Yanks they'd befriended during the war. Apparently the American soldiers came into some of our towns and villages and stole the hearts many of our young ladies. I think Michael's grin was ear to ear upon hearing this, lol. The song remains the same.
I wish one and all a lovely holiday and a joyful new year.
Be well,
Ryan
