Then we dived into the Lanes, 

bobbing and weaving through the throngs of happy shoppers,

all looking for those post-Christmas bargains….

Personally, I couldn’t be bothered. 

I did find a very cool jacket for Dave, 

but I’ve had enough of shopping to last me at least a year.

I was much more impressed with the super excellent Christmas lights! Aren’t they brilliant?!

I do like Brighton.

I love the architecture. It’s all those Victorian balconies I like.

Don’t these two make a handsome couple?

It was a shame that Grace and Nick missed Brighton 

and the glorious sunshine.

But New York was a-calling….

And before you knew it, 

the sun was setting and the sky was perfect.

“Look Mum!” said Mark, “It looks just like your brayer artwork”

Now how many 24 year old lads do you know 

who know what a brayer is?

So we wandered back along the waterfront,

waved goodbye to the Pier,

and came home to a tasty piping hot Cottage Pie 

I had prepared earlier. 

I have been full of gratitude today.

After the traumatic news of Carrie Fisher’s death and her poor mum Debbie Reynolds’ death just a day later, 

what else is there except gratitude?

I am grateful Dave is so well this year. 

I am grateful to have spent so much time with my parents 

and kids this Christmas.

I am grateful I don’t do drugs or drink.

I am grateful my kids aren’t tormented by drugs or drink.

It guarantees nothing, but it certainly reduces the probability of a premature exit. 

And as I walked along the waterfront today, 

it just felt good to be alive and sober.

Until tomorrow…

Love & Hugs,

Barb

xxx