22 December 2013

She won't let you fly, but she might let you sing

So, home, dried off, gear now dripping dry over the bath. I'm snuggled up with my husband, who I've missed a lot today.


Went to see Mum today. Although I suppose I mainly went to see Nicky.

We met up at Mum's old house. The little garden is really overgrown, and now all dead for winter. Needs a lot of tlc. But it wasn't the weather for that today. And anyway, whoever gets it won't care. It's theirs to do as they like with, they'll undoubtedly just be happy to have somewhere to live.

The house does seem empty, without her, and her few things she's taken. They let you sort of, do out your room, if you want, with your own furniture. So she took the table out of her room, and one of the armchairs, and a bookcase and TV. And there wasn't loads else. Beds, the rest of the three-piece suite, a horrible kitchen table and chairs.

Nicky said she'd asked if any of the others wanted anything, but Sam and Rach didn't. Danny didn't answer.

We went through the few books she'd left - there were barely any anyway. Just recipe books, a few things people have bought her over the years. Mostly untouched, spines still uncreased.

And then there's photos. As Nicky said, none from when we were small, unless other people had given them to her. But some from later in our childhood, when the others where still quite young.

Very few, though. Cost money, didn't it, to buy your film, get it developed. So it only happened on special occasions. There's a few holiday pictures. Mostly with the men of her life in them. I don't know if she'll want them.



After we'd done a bit, and it would be well past their lunchtime, we went to see her. I took her a card and present from us. She asked where John was, in a way I couldn't tell if it was suspicious or accusatory or just...her. Anyway, she had a card for us, too.

And then she tried to give me a tenner each for the boys, and I refused it - on the grounds she's got practically nothing and they don't want for anything. Except...well, I wish I hadn't, now, because it just caused a stupid row about her not being good enough and, you know, just bloody stupid. Which was exactly what I didn't want. And then her saying we shouldn't be paying for the home and all of that stuff. And honestly, she's probably the one person left in my life who really knows which buttons to push to make me lose my cool. And she's exactly the person I don't want to do that with. And it's also exactly what I would do in her situation, because like it or not, we are alike, far too much so for our own good.

So, anyway, went back to the house, did a bit more sorting, so now there's a pile of furniture to go after Christmas, to the tip and a charity, and then...that's it, pretty much. House back to the council, for a new family. Not that it was ever really my home, but it still feels odd.


Have a picture of some sleepy degus, because...well, they're lovely And they've been with us two years now. I still remember sneaking them into Mrs Hudson's flat with John - and her being horrified by having to live with them for a day and a bit, until Christmas. And John and I really wondering if we'd done the right thing, and if Sherlock would look after them well enough, or if we'd end up doing it. Or if he'd get bored. But he hasn't. He's been wonderful, and he's learnt a lot, and been a very dedicated and responsible degu-carer.

They fluff themselves up all fat when they're sleepy, like here. But they're still interested enough to figure out if you've got food, despite being half asleep.


112 comments:

pandabob said...

I'm glad you managed to get down to help Nicky and to see your mum but I'm also glad you're now back home with John and the boys where you belong :-)

I hope the day wasn't too hard for you and that your brain is good to you over the next few days as it processes it all :-)

Greg Lestrade said...

Thanks. I'll be okay. Work to keep me busy tomorrow, and the boys to keep me even busier on Christmas Eve!

Like I said on John's blog, at least she's looking better. It is the right place for her.

Unknown said...

oh, random-internet-person hugs, it's never easy going through parental stuff, no matter the history and situation. I'm glad you and Nicky could do it together. It sounds like your mum is starting to settle into the new place, and it must be a load off your minds to know she's getting looked after. It might even be easier for her to accept the help, coming from non-family... less fraught? Hope so, anyway.
Giving up independence is hard, in any case, at any age: it's such a basic drive. I remember I turned down help from my dad once, thinking it was a point of pride that I didn't "need" it. I only realized years later how I had hurt his feelings by doing so... and I had no idea even how to apologize.
Really glad you have each other to come home to now!
S

pandabob said...

I'm glad she's looking better Greg, that's what matters really :-)

Christmas is a crazy busy time that's for sure ;-)

REReader said...

I've helped go through family's belongings several times, after their deaths, and that was a lot of hard work each time, and sad. And now with my father...well, he's still here and not going anywhere, but the equipment to care for him is gradually taking up more and more room, so we've been having to give away things to make room for the equipment, and also to make room elsewhere for all the personal papers in his room, in case we can qualify for an aide at some point. And that is hard and sad, too--especially as he doesn't see it as helping him but as taking things away from him, most particularly his control, and has tantrums about it at us. I imagine part of your mother's lashing out is taking some of her loss of control over her life and possessions out on you--which is unfair, however comprehensible. I do see you couldn't just accept the money (which she needs) to give to the boys, even though it was a nice thing that she wanted to--a difficult situation, to be sure. So it's good you're home now, to...decompress, for lack of a better word.

The degus look adorable--curious and sleepy, all at the same time. :)

Anonymous said...

This parent stuff obviously hits a chord with me, I feel compelled to comment, again.

NObody's prepared for the stuff that comes as a parent ages. Maybe for some people it goes smoothly. I don't know any of those people.

You fuck up. The parent fucks up. If we're lucky, it's because we care but we get it wrong. Sometimes it starts long before the parent is aging, sometimes it starts when you're still a kid at home. In my family, the tightly held need not to be needy or vulnerable, "I can handle this just fine, thank-you," to put a good face on any personal struggles - and I mean parents AND children here - made everything that much harder. Parents and children, we pushed each other away trying not to ask for too much. Or for anything. Near the end of my mom's life I wondered if I should stop bringing my teen children to visit. She started using her considerable intelligence to poke at people - at their vulnerabilities. I sincerely think part of it was that it was easier for her to reach out for connection in a negative than a positive way. In the end, I know that my brother and I were there for my mom, within our capabilities, and I know she appreciated that. She might have wanted more, I might have wanted to do more, but we all ended up where we were and did what we knew how to do. In the end, I'm okay with that.

You and Nicky are being there, as best you can - and you seem to be supporting each other, you're doing what you can. It's o.k. to be okay with that.

formerlyAnon

Greg Lestrade said...

Thanks everyone.

And I'm sorry if me writing about this is making some of you think about sad things.

I think you're right, formerlyAnon, it doesn't go smoothly for anyone.

tresta said...

Love the pic. :-) So are you able, L, to tell the two apart? This may be the first pic that shows both their faces clearly since they tend to snuggle down in a bundle. They are very sweet looking and certainly cuddly. Is Mercury still the most active one? Sherlock told me that one got stuck in your tree last year; my guess is it was Mercury!

tresta said...

L I wish I knew what to say on the family stuff. For what it is worth I do keep you in my thoughts as well as Nicky and Rachel and Sam, and the girls' families. I can understand how it must be stressful for everyone. That includes John and the boys who must wish they could make it better for you in the "snap fingers and fix" sense. But it a very real sense it seems they do make it better by being there and loving you.

I am sorry you have to work this year but glad you will have Christmas Eve (I loved what you said about Sherlock, milk and mince pies over on John's blog; so sweet!) and it sounds like New Years too?

You are writing about painful stuff and that's okay. My wish for you right now is that you can surround yourself with all those who love you and be content these next few days.

I hope this isn't too silly or redundant but I just wanted to say something about it.

Anonymous said...

I came across these photos on the internet and thought of you boys (primarily John and Sherlock, I think). A fisherman in Japan somehow or other dyes the skeletons of dead creatures and takes x-rays, or something. I admit I was having enough fun looking at the photos and didn't look at how he does it at all:

http://www.shinsekai-th.com/en/photo.php

Ella

Greg Lestrade said...

Tresta - I can sometimes tell which is which. Given enough time. Doesn't help when they get their winter fur and change!

Right, today is a day of unsolved murders and new murders and hoping we can clear some up for Christmas. Particularly sentimental criminals on the run who might come home for the season.

tresta said...

Re Degus: And I imagine they move fast too! Makes it harder. They sure are cute, though. And they look happy. Will Santa maybe bring them a loo roll for Christmas? Or perhaps paper towels? My kitty went to town the other day on some paper towels. Just a few sheets I put out to use, but she had a blast!

Have you all got snow? My guess is no because Sherlock would probably have posted about it!

Good luck with your cases. So criminals really do come see family for holidays, or if somebody's sick, etc? That's interesting. I've seen that on TV but I never know how realistic the portrayal is.

I hope you have some sentimental bad guys in your case load, so you can at least give that much to your victims families. And sometimes the victims, I guess depending on what sort of case you catch.

Here's a funny police type question: is the old fashioned term The Flying Squad same as what you call India 99 now?

REReader said...

I hope everyone is having a good Christmas Eve Eve (would that be the right term? :)) today!

I'm off to see if my eye has settled down enough that I can get a new eyeglass prescription--it would be a nice novelty to see properly out of both eyes again!

Anonymous said...

Anyone want to tell the queen that the palace police deserve to have nuts to snack on? Especially since their taxes paid for the nuts. ;)

Ella

Greg Lestrade said...

Tresta - it's not an old fashioned term! But I won't tell them you said it was ;)

Flying squad still exists today, but sadly they've never had anything to do with actually flying. The name comes because they were the first team of specially selected officers to deal with one sort of crime across all boroughs - before that, you worked your borough, and teams didn't cross the boundaries, much. So yeah, still exist, still deal with largely the same type of crimes. Nothing to do with India 99!

Greg Lestrade said...

And apologies for any spelling mistakes. my G key has fallen off and I have to remember to o back and put the Gs in

Kestrel337 said...

Is it the G key that got glue on it? That sacrifices we make for our young people!

RR, good luck with your eyes, I hope you get good news. My youngest is down with a fever and I'm off to the laundromat. The 23rd is the day I try to make sure the house is clean enough to get messed up over the next few days.

Greg Lestrade said...

No, different computer! I probably overuse the G.

Hope everyone is taking care of they're travelling in this weather.

Danger, hope you guys aren't going stir crazy.

REReader said...

Thanks Kestrel! Everything looks good and I did get the prescription, but I'm supposed to wait a few days to order the new glasses. Soon, though! I hope your youngest feels better quickly.

Can your G key (which autocorrect wanted to spell G-string) be fixed, L?

I hope everyone is having a safe and (relatively) stress free lead up to the holiday!

Greg Lestrade said...

I shall ensure that Christmas Day Santa brings me a new keyboard...

The weather is starting to seriously affect London travel now, even worse further south. Don't go out unless you have to, folks - including seeing relatives! They would rather you safe than making a dangerous journey, I'm sure.

tresta said...

Re Flying Squad : oops! Thanks for not outing me, L! :-)

tresta said...

RR:
It's the Day Before the Night Before Christmas!! :-)
(And we're busy, busy, being good!)

REReader said...

Hahahaha! Good is good!

Greg Lestrade said...

and now they're saying the footy might be cancelled - disaster!

Tresta - it is a rather misleading name. I bet they wish they did have a helicopter...

Greg Lestrade said...

come on home time!

Sally said...

A certain DI who said he was ignoring Christmas spent the last hour of the day wearing antlers and whistling Christmas tunes, so no one be too taken in with his Scrooge impersonation.

John H. D. Watson said...

Did anyone take pictures?

REReader said...

:D

Have a happy Christmas, Sally! (You've certainly brightened my day!)

Sally said...

I shall find out, John.

I hope you all have a happy Christmas- Eve.

Greg Lestrade said...

Grass.

Hey, why do none of you like baubles?

Sherlock just hit me like a rocket-propelled grenade as I walked in the door. He nearly ran straight into my helmet - been a nice Christmas in A&E then! (Motorcycle helmet, him in A&E, get your minds out the gutters.)

John H. D. Watson said...

Thanks, Sally, happy Christmas :)

L - I like baubles, I just like tinsel better.

Joolz said...

As if we'd think anything else, Greg, however, the fact that you wanted to defend yourself from that thought is more telling... ;)

It's certainly nice to be welcomed home so enthusiastically though, lovely to be missed to that extent.

Have you all got plans for tomorrow for Christmas Eeeeeeeve - Unfortunately I have to work it, but I have to say it's my favourite day, I just love all the anticipation and I'm sure there will be plenty of excitement going on at your place too. :)

Greg Lestrade said...

Well, I'm doing a slow roast pork shoulder.... not sure what we'll do while it's slowly roasting. Slightly weather dependent.

Obviously making a swiss roll...yule log, I mean.

Unknown said...

I'm finally making it up to the pub sing at McNeil's tomorrow (maybe also the next regular 4th Saturday one, we'll see), carpooling with a friend. I've been hearing that it's a really good sing, and a chance to sing with some of the friends who live a bit farther away and I don't see as often. Then I'm doing a pot roast on Weds, in the crock pot, which I'm also looking forward to. :)
pork roast sounds yum! My sister's high school french club used to make those yule log cakes as a fundraiser every year, I remember they were really good.
S

Joolz said...

I just watched Delia doing a yule log which looked amazing with her bark effect and snow. Do you use any specific recipe or just one of your own making. I assume Sherlock will be chief decorator or are you going to let him make the whole thing with a little assistance.

Greg Lestrade said...

Well done for whoever took pity on baubles.

Joolz - I'll take a recipe off the internet. Probably Mary Berry's!

Sherlock will be chief of decorations. I'll probably do the first bake, because he hates it when things go wrong for him. So I'll be the sacrificial lamb there, check it works, and he can make the next one. Because I have no doubt that it won't last more than about ten minutes around here.

In other news, boring footy match and the wrong result.

Small Hobbit said...

L - it looks like they needn't have bothered playing.

Greg Lestrade said...

I bet most people wish they hadn't turned up to watch. At least it's short journeys home.

Would have been nice going top for Christmas.

now, what's more sensible...wrapping up going outside, or wearing as little as possible, on the assumption it'll be less to dry!?

REReader said...

How cold is it, and how long are you going to be outside?

(I voted for baubles last night, but it didn't register. So I tried again. :))

Greg Lestrade said...

it is bloody cold, with the wind. And I went for 'wear less, be fast'. Just wanted to check the bikes, there are so many bins and things blowing around.

Greg Lestrade said...

(John told me I was an idiot)

John H. D. Watson said...

And then he came back in and put his icy hands on my stomach...

Greg Lestrade said...

(that may have been when he called me an idiot)

John H. D. Watson said...

After the wordless shriek. I think they were colder than usual this time.

REReader said...

...It seems justified. :D

Greg Lestrade said...

i know it's not cold... but it's like walking into the ocean out there, the way the wind just smacks the rain straight into your face.

Nicky said...

It's terrible down here. Makes me even more glad that Mum's in her new place, not sitting alone at home.

You're right, Orio, she does just know how to needle you. You do well to ignore most of it. That place isn't a prison - she's just ... well, you know what she's doing.

I'm a bit jealous of your cooking plans for tomorrow. I haven't even thought about tomorrow, what with Christmas Day cooking already filling my head.

Greg Lestrade said...

Take care of yourself. And yeah, I'm glad too.

It seemed nice, you know, nicer than I thought it would be. I assumed the prison comment was regarding the drink and cigs. Well, and the rest, but yeah, I know she was just...trying to get a rise.

I'm leaving Christmas Day to the capable hands of Mycroft and Mrs H. And the incapable hands of a few others ;)

Greg Lestrade said...

Hey - you heard about Alan Turing.FINALLY a Royal Pardon. Finally.

tresta said...

I am revved up to bake something now if my joints co-operate. Perhaps I will do Christmas Cats and Dogs which are very fun and easy. I came up with them (or my version) though I'm sure someone else has done it before me, and better than me.I

do gingerbread dough usually (but can do sugar). Make the dough, turn out on floured surface and roll out as for cutouts. I use a round cutter with a slightly fluted edge but you can also use a floured drinking glass or anything round that's the right shape.

I bake the rounds then draw cat and dog faces. Cats get eyes, two pointy ears, whiskers, and a gumdrop nose. Dogs get "loopy" ears (see Snoopy from Peanuts) eyes and gumdrop nose. I use only red and green gumdrops for the noses (to keep the theme)but you can use any color. I tend to use one color icing per cookie/biscuit; for example I draw the dogs with green icing and the cats with red. Dogs then get red gumdrop noses and cats get green. But I love symmetry; any combo will do!

I will take a picture if I get to do some. These are really simple; all their charm is in the decorating.

tresta said...

Merry Christmas, Nicky! I am so sorry for what you are going through with your Mum right now. It must really hurt; you and L have my deep respect. In spite of all that, I hope your holiday is peaceful - or as peaceful as you want it to be. I hope that is possible for you.
I can't really know how any of it feels. But you're in my thoughts.

(Sorry to double comment; I am fairly new and haven't figured out how to edit my comments. If that is possible).

L, perhaps the Flying Squad asked Santa for something that will fly? :-)

tresta said...

I use a round cutter with a slightly fluted edge but you can also use a floured drinking glass or anything round that's the right shape.

That was supposed to read "anything round that's the right SIZE."

Anon Without A Name said...

Lestrade - I've just seen some brief comments about Turing's pardon. About bloody time too. I saw a link to the debate in the house of Lords; 75000 men were convicted under the original amendment to the law, 16000 are alive today and are able to apply to have their convictions disregarded, but the 49000 deceased men are currently not going to be posthumously pardoned or cleared.

I'm really happy about Turing - this country owes him a debt we can never repay - but I suppose we have to take his pardon as symbolic for all those who aren't able to have their own convictions overturned.

(The link to the Lords debate, by the way, is here)

Greg Lestrade said...

Tresta - you can't edit comments. Don't worry about doubles! We won't run out ;)

Nameless - I would like to hope it may be a small step in the right direction, and hopefully others will also be pardoned en masse. I would also vastly prefer it if you didn't have to apply to have the conviction disregarded. There will be people who have never told the people they are currently with.

The lords debate is interesting, from the point of view of seeing how our politics system works, as well as the content.

The country - and indeed many other countries - certainly do owe him a huge amount. He saved hundreds of thousands of lives, fighting a regime which punished minorities, and was then punished by his own country.

Anonymous said...

Nicky, I'm sticking my stranger's nose in to commend you for doing what you do for your mum and for (again a stranger's outside view) working so well & generously with your siblings. In my family my brother was the one on the spot, I was 1500 miles away. It's wearing when everybody has your phone number to call first when there's a question or a problem. The way you & Greg support each other shows a lot of love.

Turing was the tragedy we've all heard about & is dramatic because he contributed so much in a way that's known; so many others just as tragic and who contributed their bits, probably most just by being the best men they knew how to be in the lives they were living. I try to take the view that we are making progress.

Enough gloom. Signs of social progress, love in a family, these are good things and the holiday spirit is in my house in the form of decorations, baking, and wrapped presents. I love the holiday music and especially the lights. Hope everyone catches a little grace in the way of happiness or ease this year!

formerlyAnon

Greg Lestrade said...

There are indeed many signs of progress - look at us, talking to you on computers, in a recognised relationship - which we could, if we wanted, change to a marriage next year.

Sherlock is, amazingly, sleeping through the strong wind, lashing rain and flickering lights. The dogs aren't enjoying it much though, and both seem to be in Mycroft's bed with him. Although I don't think they're reading. Wouldn't put it past them, though...

tresta said...

Glad Sherlock is sleeping through. He'll no doubt be very excited tomorrow.

Is Mycroft reading in bed? Or did you mean the dogs might be reading the blog comments. Either way, you never do know with dogs, do you? :-) Especially those two, I'd guess. They live part of the time with Anthea! (And I wish her a Merry Christmas/Happy Holiday as well).

Good luck with the Yule log if you decide to bake that tomorrow. I recall reading about it here or over on John's blog- maybe both at this point! I have never tried a Swiss Roll type of cake but the one I have eaten was very good. I am trying to imagine rolling a cake! Perhaps you'll be able to share what it was like if you all end up making one.

Aaand it's Christmas Eve in Britain. Have a very happy one. :-)

Greg Lestrade said...

Yes, Mycroft's reading in bed.

Glad I haven't got work tomorrow, if this is a sign how much sleep I'll be getting... I think the worst of the weather has passed now, though.

Might get a sneaky post-lunch nap tomorrow, if I'm lucky. With a doc, not a dog, if I'm luckier!

REReader said...

Hey - you heard about Alan Turing.FINALLY a Royal Pardon. Finally.

And about time, too! I'm so pleased to see attitudes in this area swinging around the way they have been in the past few years--and it really has only been a few years. Here's hoping that in even less time it will all seem inconceivable to most people.

Reading in bed is lovely. So is napping. (And I imagine even nicer with the right company. ;))

Anonymous said...

Speaking of progress of a slightly different sort...I was on the bus yesterday, wearing a puffy coat and beanie and I suppose looking generally boyish. Two extremely drunk dudebros (that's what my friends and I call them, I don't know what the British word is. Chavs, maybe? Or the sorts of people you see getting drunk and obnoxious at football games). At first they thought I was a guy, and then realized I am a girl, and then immediately assumed I was gay (I didn't correct them, because why), and spent the next 20 minutes of the bus ride assuring me that:
-gay people are awesome. the most awesome. like, totally amazing, gay people make everything so amazing.
-his mom is bisexual? or maybe he is? he was so drunk he was mixing up his pronouns.
-they voted for gay marriage. and would like to vote for it again. because gay marriage is awesome. there needs to be more gay marriage
-i'm gay but this is my girlfriend but i'm also gay.
-if anybody ever gives you any shit about being gay you come find us because we will totally have my back.
-they will beat people up if that means more gay marriage. if people are against gay marriage they will beat that person up. (i told them please, no, don't do this, we don't need more beating up.)

It was so hilarious, and so completely over the top. I would've thought they were pranking me except the girl that they were with was very obviously embarrassed and kept telling them to shut up. They were also very far away from the people that I'm used to seeing talk about LGBTQ stuff, so that was refreshing. also happy and affirming drunks instead of obnoxious puking drunks was fun.

Ella

Joolz said...

Great news about Turing and I agree with you, Greg, it should just be a blanket overturning for everyone (both living and dead) without them having to apply for it, after it all, it was a wrong done to them not by them, why should they have to put out the effort to correct it when it should be automatic.

Ella - they certainly sound like a better kind of drunk to have and nice to see them sticking up for people instead of being horrible to them.

On a more exciting note - it's Christmas EEEEEEEEEEEEVE
Here, for all us true believers, is the link to track Santa's journey round the globe - I think it usually starts about lunch time GMT when he gets to his first destination in the Southern Hemisphere. http://www.noradsanta.org/

Good luck with all the baking today, guys, have a fab day. :)

Small Hobbit said...

Could someone let me know where the selotape is please. And if you've got the scissors I'd like them back.

rider said...

It is possible I have your scissors. Or someone's scissors.

Any idea what they were doing in the back of the pantry then?

Greg Lestrade said...

SH - in order of probability, Sherlock's room, the dog's bed, the degu's cage, on our Christmas tree. If you don't find them there, I can't help you. 99% of items in the world are in those 4 places.

Ella - I'm glad they were happy drunks! I think it's impossible to accurately describe a chav to anyone not from the UK, who's lived here within the last ten years or so.


Sherlock helped me do the crackling on the pork, and now it's just slowly cooking, we're going to take the dogs for a walk, as they only got a brief soggy stroll yesterday.

Greg Lestrade said...

Good article on the Turing pardon here

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/dec/24/alan-turing-pardon-wrong-gay-men?CMP=twt_gu

And Sherlock is trying to insist the goos sit at the table for dinner.... hmmmm.

REReader said...

Is the insisting about them being allowed to, or about them sitting at instead of scampering on? :)

Greg Lestrade said...

General concerns regarding lots of (human) food, knives, hot dishes, and the fact they're really fast when they want to be!

I think they might have to be near the table. And the dogs will attempt to sneak under the table, and fail, because they're huge and the table is not.

REReader said...

I think that near, rather than at (or under) the table is more workable for the non-human family members, yep.

When does the Yule log baking commence? And do you roll thin sheet cakes in towels while they're still warm to get the roll shape, the way my mom does when she makes jelly rolls for Passover?

REReader said...

(Clean towels, of course!)

Anonymous said...

Hope all Christmasses go off with minimal disaster. I spilled coffee on my computer yesterday and have probably destroyed it, but we are drying it out in a bag of uncooked rice just to see if that helps. So now I'm out in the country in Ohio with a house full of family, without my computer to hide behind, wish me luck. (Using a borrowed iPad to type this. )

And when I read about Turing last night, the first folks I wanted to talk about it with were you, here. It's a start?

AftSO

Anonymous said...

Merry Christmas Eve, everyone! I'm going to work, but then to celebrations later this evening.

Meant to say last night that's good news about Turing, and hopefully it's the beginning of something, rather than an isolated thing.

Ella

Sherlock said...

I had double helping of EVERYTHING and it was nice and Mrs Hudson says she won't make anything as nice with Mycroft tomorrow but I told her to try anyway and we should definitely be allowed to open a present tonight DEFINITELY otherwise we have to wait FOREVER tomorrow.

Greg Lestrade said...

Mrs Hudson and Mycroft will make delicious things. She was just being modest, Shortstuff.

By rights you should be like some sort of snake now, and be very still for three days while you digest. Wishful thinking...

REReader said...

That sounds like you had a wonderful meal, Sherlock--and I'm sure tomorrow's will be just as nice, just different. And it's sure special to have TWO feasts in one holiday!

There are many schools of thought on when to open presents, and I'm afraid I can't weigh in, since my family doesn't celebrate Christmas and therefore I have no tradition to uphold. :)

Unknown said...

Joolz, I agree, it should be the government's responsibility to put it right for everyone.
Ella, what a hoot, it feels like real progress when happy drunks stand up for equal rights!
And now I should be getting off the computer and putting my oars in the water to go to that pub sing, which is now going to be followed by a potluck. Let the feasting begin, er, continue!
S

tresta said...

Thanks to everyone who's shared links about Turning. I knew a bit about his role in the war; had no idea about the rest- the conviction and how that affected everything for him. It's heartbreaking. And way past time it was fixed; should never have happened to begin with.

I agree with someone upthread who said that every man who was convicted should be pardoned in a vast sweep, living or dead. I can't say much that others haven't said already, or said better but thanks to L and everyone who shared info and links. That is the kind of thing that everyone should know about! Both parts.

Our generation (mine, L's, Johns) is getting places but I have so much hope for Sherlock and Mycroft and the time that will be ushered in by people who think like they do on these issues.

Said it on John's blog but just wanted to wish everyone over hear a very Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays. Know not all are Christian; not sure where we are in the Jewish calendar, and we've got Kwanza too, and probably some pagan festivals. My best to everyone who may be celebrating this next week or so.

Now I am enjoying some warm kitty snuggles and hopefully seeing friends over the next few days. My closest friend always travels this time of year but at least I know he's having a good time seeing his family.


tresta said...

Sherlock, I am thinking of you today; sounds like you are having a good day and I am so glad. Whenever you open your presents, I hope you get some special ones.

Is there any special treat you get Argon and Mercury for Christmas Day, since that is your anniversary with them? I always used to bring my horse carrots with the tops on for Christmas and sometimes granola bars.

I usually fed him carrots but here we get most of them in a bag in the market; I thought getting some with tops on was special! Remind me; do you all have carrots in the allotment?

My furry ones have always had stockings; several have been stockings I made which was neat. I am now picturing stockings for Phobos Deimos and the degus, assuming you all do stockings.

tresta said...

Meant Turing; dont know how I didn't catch the typo. I apologize to him and to all Britian! :-)

Sherlock said...

I got them a cuttlefish and probably a toilet roll and some treats. We put the treats into a ball and they have to roll it around until they fall out because they like doing that.

Mycroft got the dogs things but I don't know what.

REReader said...

I bet it's fun watching them roll out their treats, too! Sounds like Argon and Mercury will be having a very happy Christmas. :)

tresta said...

Oooh treat balls! I've seen similar things for cats. The degus are so smart and curious they must love that. And toilet paper, whee! What fun, I am guessing that cuttlefish is something for them to gnaw on?

I got my kitty a special collar to wear for Christmas; it is red with trees on it. And I usually give her something special to eat that she doesn't have usually, like a bit of people-food. She loves a lot of things you'd not expect from a cat like broccoli! Dogs are more omnivorous.

Mycroft probably knows already, but there are some great dog toys that are very durable rubber chew toys but hollowed out so they can be filled with yummy treats like peanut butter! Or I've known people to fill them with water then freeze and the dogs have ice as a treat in hot weather.

If you have a chance maybe you'd share with Mycroft?

About Kong Toys
http://dogs.about.com/od/productreviews/fr/Dog-Product-Review-Kong-Toys.htm


Joolz said...

Does anyone else have a special Christmas movie they watch to get them in the mood for the festivities to start. We always watch the George C Scott version of Christmas Carol as it was filmed here and it's nice to recognise all the filming locales. They even left the Scrooge grave stone in the cemetery where they filmed and you can still go and see it which is nice (well you know what I mean ;))

REReader said...

No movies, but I do like to post a few of the Christmas songs written by Jewish songwriters on my blog in the weeks leading up to Christmas, there are so many... :)

Sherlock said...

REReader we rolled our yule log in baking paper not towels. It's good I want to make it all on my own next time.

REReader said...

Oh, that would work much better--the towels do tend to stick a bit. I'm sure you'll do excellently well next time! Was it fun to decorate?

Kestrel337 said...

We always have meatballs on Christmas eve. I have no idea why, particularly as I celebrate solstice. The whole family has already gotten their 'big gift': new cell phones all around. So it's mostly little stuff for tomorrow, books and magic cards and sweet treats.

Happy day tomorrow, whether it's a holiday for you or not.

Sherlock said...

I want to open a present!

ro said...

Merry Christmas, everyone! It's Christmas morning here. Sherlock, I cracked and opened one of my presents last night (chocolate, coffee and a cute espresso cup!). Opened the second one this morning, with my second cup of coffee. Having a friend over for dinner tonight, so will have to bake my spinach & cheese pie later. Vegetarian, summer Christmases are not as traditional!

Tonight I might watch "Nativity!" - it's very funny, and the lead actor is very cute ;)

Hope you all have a lovely, safe holiday, and I hope your work day is quiet, L!

Piplover said...

Merry Christmas, everyone! I'll be going over to my mom's in a bit for Christmas dinner and then mass. Tomorrow my brother and his girlfriend will join us for brunch, and after we'll open all our gifts.

Usually my mom and I eat home made pizza on Christmas eve, but this year things have been so stressful and hectic that we're doing something a little different.

I hope everyone has a lovely day tomorrow, or later today if it's already Wednesday where you are.

Greg Lestrade said...

He did open a present, and go to bed late!

I've had a very nice faux-Christmas Day. It's been fun.

REReader said...

That's lovely, then--both parts!

And I'll just wish all who are celebrating a (slightly early) merry Christmas. :)

Anon Without A Name said...

Merry Christmas, all :-)

Joolz said...

Merry Christmas to everyone who celebrates it and Happy Holidays to everyone who doesn't.

Glad you've enjoyed your day Greg and made the most of your family time. Hope work goes quickly for you and you're soon back home to enjoy the rest of the festivities.

Have a great day John, Sherlock and Mycroft and good luck with the cooking, Mycroft, I'm sure you'll be brilliant.

Greg Lestrade said...

Happy Christmas to you all, whatever you're doing today. Hope it's a good whatever-you-celebrate for all of you.

Unknown said...

well, the pub sing was awesome, I think I'll make more of an effort to get to the regular 4th-Saturday ones. Home now, all the vegies are cut up (and the onion browned) so I can start the pot roast in the crock pot first thing in the morning.
Someone asked about favorite holiday movies... I have LoveActually and The Holiday, which I may end up putting on tomorrow if it ends up being just me and my sister. In that case we'll have a nice time knitting together, she's ready to start a new project and I want to get a pair of sox done for a January birthday.
Happy holidays to everyone, it's fun being part of a round-the-world group, where the new day rolls around to each of us in turn. I'm thankful for the blessing of friends and community, both face-to-face and on line.
S

tresta said...

Happy Christmas, L. I am so glad you enjoyed your day today. Glad all the food was good and the yule log was a success! You deserved that good time with your family.

What did Sherlock open?

I keep remembering the Christmas when I was his age, I was SO excited the night before that I fell asleep as soon as we opened our presents Christmas Day. If you know what I mean. :-)

I'm glad Sherlock fell asleep. Do you think he's out for good, or will you need to check on him? Any guesses how early he'll wake you and John up?

Sherlock, for when you wake up- happy Christmas! I hope you have a most wonderful day!

Mycroft, good job taking on the Christmas meal. I am sure it'll be lovely. Happy Christmas to you and Mrs. Hudson. I hope you'll be able to see your Mum today, too.

And finally, Happy Christmas John! What an amazing network of friends and family you have, and what a fantastic life you and L have built!

pandabob said...

Happy Christmas gents :-) I hope you all have a good day.

Good luck with work Greg :-)

Merry Christmas to everyone else reading this I hope you enjoy spending the day in whatever way you have planned :-)

Small Hobbit said...

Happy Christmas to all, whatever you find yourselves doing.

Greg Lestrade said...

Santa has left me two bodies from last night and a new one this morning. Although I'm fairly certain this morning will be accidental/natural circs.

I hope the day is filled with good things for all of you.

Greg Lestrade said...

Sherlock, some reading for you:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-25340525

Sherlock said...

Thank you! We're playing cards and it was boring first but then Mycroft told me to be on his team and how to tell what John was going to do with his cards and now it's fun because we're winning.

John is missing you and so are we but dinner smells nice and I've eaten a carrot and Mrs Hudson gave me a chocolate orange and the degus tried to eat the cards.

Greg Lestrade said...

Try to leave him a few possessions, and just enough clothing to be decent, will you? At least until after lunch.

Tina said...

Merry Christmas, everyone! Hope you´ll have a good time.

REReader said...

It sounds like everyone at home is having a good Christmas, except possibly John...;) (That was nice if you, Mycroft.) I assume you managed to rescue the cards, Sherlock?

I hope your day is looking up a bit, L--it sounds like a lot of bodies to deal with at one time.

Greg Lestrade said...

Someone tell me if Her Maj says anything important...like all her loyal DIs are getting a hefty pay rise and more time off.

Or we're all sacked...

I don't have a TV here. Just some Pringles, little sausages, cold meat, crackers and cheese.

Anon Without A Name said...

Didn't watch it, but the headline seems to be "it's important to take time to pause, take stock and reflect". Which seems sensible.

I hope everyone's having a good day, whatever you're doing. Lestrade - in particular, I hope you have a peaceful rest of your shift.

Greg Lestrade said...

Thanks! I have Saint Danger coming to see me, which surely means I've been a good boy?? ;)

Joolz said...

A very good boy I'm sure ;) It'll be lovely to meet up with your husband & then only a few more hours to go 'til you're home.

How was dinner, boys - delicious I'm sure - well done Mycroft.
Enjoy the rest of your day. :-D

Piplover said...

I hope everyone has a happy Christmas, or a wonderful day! Good luck with the rest of your shift, L, I hope it passes swiftly and without any further bodies.

Anon Without A Name said...

Lestrade - you reminded me of a badge I used to own, "When I'm good, I'm very good - but when I'm bad I'm better" :-p Enjoy your conjugal visit :-D

REReader said...

Here's the best ever rendering of that line for you, Nameless: http://youtu.be/msScft3g2Wc

;)

Anon Without A Name said...

Brilliant, ReRe - thanks very much :-)

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