WEEK FIFTY ONE 17/12 -- 23/12

Began the week before Christmas with a day off and a trip up to London to visit the Science Museum. Was great to get out and also meet up with an old work colleague Steve for a chat and a few beers too. Alas the Museum part was not all that I had expected it to be, things have changed since I went as a school kid obviously but it's more computer terminals and static exhibits rather than telling a story of things like the Industrial Revolution and the birth of Railways and Aviation. Even the parts devoted to space exploration didn't see all that interesting and it didn't take us half as long to finish there than it did going around the Natural History Museum. 

But overall it was a good start to the week to have got out and I also still have a couple of quid left to enjoy the weekend given I'm not paid till nearer Xmas. Speaking of Xmas it'll soon be here, and all cards posted, received a few and have a couple of gifts purchased. Can complete that on Wednesday in Kingston and the only person I haven't got anything in for is myself, usually pick up something nice for me as I won't get receiving anything from anyone as usual, even Santa has forgotten me now. 

Strictly finished on Saturday. Would have been nice to see Julia but probably not in a good place. Well done to Ore winning the show, although the one thing that will always stick in my mind will be Ed Balls performing Gangnam Style.

Sunday 18th December 
An annual service of Remembrance which is hosted by Lodge Bros and conducted at St Lawrence's Church on Sunday at 3pm. This is a service I have been attending since the passing of my step mother Christine and my father Geoffrey Tyler. It's very moving, emotional and 'enjoyable' for want of a better word. 

The week continued with another day off on Monday, where I took the opportunity to go to the Hanworth Crematorium to have a sit and 'chat' with the parents. Not been for a few months and the weather hasn't helped recently but I still come more often than ever before and it's very peaceful place to sit and think things over. I still have plenty to think about too. 

Thursday was out for a brief Xmas drink with some work colleagues, and then the working year is virtually over for us all and it's an opportunity to spend some quality time making plans for the rest of the year plus the new year ahead.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND HAPPY NEW YEAR TOO.