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A pleasant last evening in the floating care home.  We didn’t win any more quizzes, but had won enough to qualify for another picture frame and a 4-way USB adaptor.  Dinner was up to scratch, and we had a quick chat afterwards with pianist Matthew before heading down for an early night.  

Disembarking was a little better than in previous trips: we didn’t have to gather in the theatre, but were just told to head out from our cabins at a given hour.  There was a bit of a queue at the gangway, and we’ll enquire why the airbridge wasn’t in operation: as on boarding, we had to brave the elements along the quay.  From there on, it was the usual hunt for the bags, and quite a long schlepp to the car.  The drive home was pretty wet, but we got here safely.  

It was disappointing to find that the Royal Mail had failed to keep back our mail, as per contract, so we shall be looking to get our £19 back.  If they can be persuaded to answer their phones without a long delay.  [Later: they did, and we’re expecting a refund]  As it was, a lot of cards were squashed into the box, and a neighbour had to take in a small parcel.

After lunch, we collected the Christmas chicken and things from the farm shop, which was a bit of a scrum.  Fortnums, on the other hand, wasn’t too bad, so we’re reasonably well set up for the holidays.  Once again, we shall be Darby and Darby at home.  

Much laundry yesterday and today, so we’re pretty well up to date.  The chicken is stuffed, the piggies are blanketed, and I’ve even dared to prepare some sprouts: not that I expect enthusiasm in this respect.