Mum's birthday

 Off up to Edgware first thing to see Mum on her 82nd birthday. Heavy downpour this morning, which made pumping the tyres up (and again to adjust in a car park) a drenching experience. When we were onto the M25, the rain stopped its lashing and we made it up to Edgware in good time despite all the traffic on the ring road.

A cup of tea with Mum and Mas,  diverted Mason explaining his theories about Ukraine to Lorraine immediately on her arrival. We gave them Christmas presents and Mum her birthday presents She seemed very happy -- and loved a colourful cat scarf Maureen had bought her. The lovely Maheena arrived bringing a flower for Mum's birthday, Ben had phoned too, even the cleaner called.

Then Lorraine drove us off to the Waggon and Horses. Today, cheerfully crowded with lots of people having meals. Mum had booked the preferred seat by the fire. People came over to say hello to Mum and Mason, the staff know them by name. One guy came over to say that there was a community in the pub and people looked after each other. The chef came out and squeezed Mum, called her mummy, and wished her happy birthday. Apparently he calls her Mummy and Babe in the same breath which mum says is a bit confusing. 

I am delighted that they have this place where everybody knows their names, a bit like the Cheers theme tune. People are kind to them there. Pubs are a brilliant thing.

Mum Lorraine and I ate an all day breakfast in there, which was a good choice. Mason had his customised chicken soup and spring rolls. 

We drove back to Mum's place, but paused only briefly before beginning the drive home. I was very happy that Lorraine and I could spent time with them on Mum's birthday.

The journey home easier, mainly because it wasn't pouring even though it was soon dark. A bit strange to reach the end of the A27 at what we call the rabbit roundabout on the edge of Brighton, and then go left and drive East to get to Seaford. Nice to get home though, being careful on the Seaford Bends, where three accidents have happened since we moved here. Arrived a bit car sore, and me very grateful to Lorraine having been staring hard at the road for much of the day.  

Here we all are in the Waggon and Horses. I am delighted these snaps capture me at the zenith of festive plumpness. Next photo of me here will be all cheekbones.