Again I am writing this from my favourite place - bed. On my second cup of tea and having read the on-line papers, I thought I would post what most probably will be my last blog of the year.
Clouds loomed across the valley yesterday and then we had our first monsoonal type pour down of the year. The wind was howling through the palm trees and almost constant flashes of lightening could be seen in the distant mountains, the highest ones tipped with snow now. All through the night it continued, and on the occasions that it woke me I could see from my bed the palm trees bending under the strain as the sensor lights on the drive were triggered by the blustery weather.
Max has been enjoying his on-line school and last night logged on to watch the school talent show. It was brilliant, and their were around 70 plus watching, as children of all ages performed over a conference call set up. There was piano playing, singing, demonstrations of all sorts of things from creating digital art to a lovely girl baking a cake. Very imaginative I thought and how amazing that all these children had made the effort to contribute to their online community. The show went on for at least two hours and most probably was better attended than many school performances I have sat through over the years.
All that having to go out in the cold dark night, drive to school then struggle to find somewhere to park, fight to find a good seat and then only be able to see the top of your son/daughter's head for about 5 seconds, then hang around till they have said good bye to all their friends wishing you could be back home with a hot toddy by a warm fire.
I for one enjoyed the show in the comfort of our own home, by a roaring fire and could even catch a bit of Coronation St. between acts.
Here is a picture of Max at school, with Sparticus offering help when needed.
Actually he does sit at a desk with his books, but this was 'break time' when they chat with each other.
The painting is one that I've done for the cover of Alistairs next book called 'Goliath'.
I am looking forward to seeing all the children at Christmas and we are going to relax and make the most of their company, watch old films and kick back with a few halves of guinness.
Have a peaceful Christmas where ever you are. and may next year see more love spread around the world.