Games

Lady D wanted to try to do some spark shots. I'm far from tunnels and subways so the best location I could think of, preferably close to home was one of the fords at Shere. I was tempted to go a little further afield to a place that would give more of a wow factor, but with a meal simmering gently on the hob and a couple of tums crying out for food, we decided to go with these images.

There was a craft fair on at RHS Wisley today. It seemed like a good idea to gain some pre festive spirit. I emptied my pockets of most of my cash, cards and any other form of payment. I know what I'm capable of! Some of the works were exquisite and others so appealing. Ooos and aaahs later, I could have spent a fortune. Without means in my pocket, I have collected cards from my favourite exhibitors and will troll through web sites later where I will choose with calm and less of the 'got to get it now' enthusiasm.
Lady D commented that the exhibits were geared for elder people. Thinking about it, once again there is a hypothetical stereotype of an RHS member and the exhibits were aimed for that pocket. We both however picked up on simple ideas that are easy to emulate without spending the ridiculous amounts requested.

I'm afraid I'm not a Christmas person. I abhor the commercialisation of a festivity that should be about thought and good will. I overheard the conversation of a young mother that will be replicated around the world. The gist was, 'I can't afford it but *** will spend that amount on me so I have to get something of equal value'. Today I watched serious pounds fly for articles that will collect dust for a while and finish up on ebay or in a bin. In times as these are, many receivers of these gifts will be struggling to put the Christmas dinner on the table and I feel so sad for young families. Stocking fillers £20 a piece!

My mother will be with me this year, but I'll still go and visit elderly people I know, who otherwise will see nobody. No expensive gifts, just a small home made cake or something I know will make a difference to their lives and my presence for a while.