Advent Day 15

Fortunately my leg has healed enough for me to take the lead on this

display of Christmas lights on Stopples Lane. I also grasped the

opportunity of conversing with owner Nick and his lad, Charlie. Nick explained that he likes to move things around each year, and picks up new items wherever he finds them. The reindeer beside Santa on the sledge came from a skip; the sledge had been in his garage for years. Note that the Santa on the wall in the first picture bears a countdown to Christmas Day.

The windows in a small row of neighbouring shops were similarly

decorated. Here are those to Silver Thread & Golden Needles and Everything Pets.

Jackie photographed Hatherley’s Hairdressers window; close-ups of that of Silver Threads & Golden Needles;

and me in action.

For some years now it has been a tradition for us to dine on Mr Chan’s Hordle Chinese Take Away fare on Christmas Eve, regardless of the numbers present. Mr Chan has retired, so having been able to say goodbye,

Jackie also photographed the darkened window and the closed sign.

Kings House is a perfectly adequate alternative, but we will miss Mr Chan.

This evening we enjoyed the third and final outing of Jackie’s wholesome liver casserole meal with new potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, accompanied, in my case, by more of the Cabernet Sauvignon.

44 comments

  2. One of the pictures looked like it had a crocheted snowman like the phantom crocheter is expanding beyond the royal mail box. Glad to see you up and about, Derrick. We usually go to Monterey, CA for Christmas and drive the 17 mile drive on Christmas morning followed by lunch at a Chinese restaurant in Pacific Grove. it is often crowded with Chinese families celebrating the day together.

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  6. The Christmas lights are beautiful, Derrick and Jackie! I am sorry you are losing Mr. Chan due to retirement, but pleased you have a good alternative for your traditional Christmas Eve meal.

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  7. Wonderfully festive! We are heading back north to reach home by Christmas and go skiing with the kids and grandkids. I am definitely too old for all this! I am trying again to follow you by email. I wish it would work as I regret missing your posts. Be safe & well, all of you. All the Joys of The Season to you and your family Derrick.

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  8. It’s great that your leg is healing and you’re back in action, hunting the Christmas lights! I like Nick’s way of picking up Christmas decorations here and there. Sounds “organic.”

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  9. So glad your leg is healing!
    More cheery festive Christmas lights and decorations photos, Jackie and Derrick!
    It’s so sad when a fave restaurant closes. But I wish Mr. Chan a wonderful retirement! I’m sure he has probably worked hard for many many decades.
    (((HUGS))) ❤️❤️

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  10. I’m glad your poor old leg is feeling much better and you were able to continue your Advent photo show, these one’s are lovely. Is Mr Chan not selling his business?

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    1. I don’t know what his plans are, except that he and his family still live above. Thanks very much, Sue

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  14. The Christmas lights in your photos seem to be dancing. I’m glad your leg is healed. That’s too bad about Mr. Chan. I almost feel like I knew his restaurant. For many years, on New Year’s Eve, we had Chinese food with friends.

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