The First Winter

I have visited in the winter but had not experienced the daily changes through the seasons. It is quite different to feel the gradual loss of the sun's heat and for the cold to creep in, day by day. I love the weather here. There is such a lot of it!

Christmas over, now in that vacuum waiting for the NY celebrations and then we can get on and see what 2017 will bring. I am quite happy it will soon be over.

Stefan just now, as I write this blog, has had a very well meant telling off from my dad that was right on the button. For all my study of Polish with books etc, Stefan still talks to me in English (very bad English at that). And in no time we are not speaking Polish, but English. Henry had finally to speak out. He knows about learning languages and knows this sends me right back to square one, again, so he told us both this was no good.  Stefan has to forget his English except for talking to Henry, and has to help me!  Not very comfortable for me, but I have to learn, it has been long enough. I am so grateful for that lesson. Lets hope there will be great leaps forward.

The holiday was fine, but we lacked the usual, somewhat overwhelming, number of visitors. I personally don’t mind a bit, but it was hurtful for Stefan. There are deep rifts in the family that are painful and I feel sorry for him. He is a strong man and a positive one; he wouldn’t dwell on hurts, but they are there. Next year will be different.  I am reading one of Trollope’s Barchester novels.  Could be us! Human nature in all its glory.

Henry is short of breath and has other probs that need to be investigated. Whether his pacemaker is wearing out or what we don’t know, so to the doc tomorrow. We would like to get away for a few days over New Year but this will prevent us if he needs tests.

Stefan mounted a mirror to see who is coming.

Preparing the carp, which was fabulous. Stefan hadn't made it before, and I had ever eaten it before. What a delight.

This quite dreadful meal was served at an unexpected Christmas celebration for the Senior ladies club.  I haven't been back since; what with the Playschool activities, I can't take it.

At the restaurant for the Christmas dinner. Much singing.

From our bedroom. 

Final pretty picture