To paraphrase the late John Lennon,"So this is Christmas, and what have
you done?" Well, we have traveled halfway around the world, seem some
wonderful places, met wonderful people, sampled great food, and just
enjoyed every minute of it. Now here we are, Christmas in Paris, who
would have thunk it? Paris has been an amazing experience. Everything
you hear about it is true. Except for the bit about the French being
rude and arrogant to tourists. We have experienced a warmth and
hospitality equal to anywhere else. If ever you are contemplating coming
here then do so, it will be well worth it.

Today we have perfect weather for Christmas - sub zero temps with clear blue
skies and sunshine, with a light covering of snow on the buildings and
trees - close enough to call it a white xmas. Sam, Jake and Julie went
up the hill to Sacre Coeur for xmas mass, while I stayed behind to
prepare lunch. I opened the doors onto the terrace for some fresh air
and the sound of bells pealing for mass flooded the apartment, quite
amazing.
By the time they returned lunch was ready -
roast chicken with vegetables, gravy, crusty bread and a couple of
bottles of red wine. Does it get any better than this? Tomorrow we leave Paris and drive up to Calais to catch the ferry across the channel to Dover. From there we drive into London to drop Sam off at the Contiki hotel to join his tour. Julie Jake and I are staying at a lovely Coach Inn at Romford (norther suburb of London) for a couple of days, before we drop Jake off at the Contiki hotel so he can join his tour. Then Julie & I are off again to explore a few parts of England - not sure where yet, it will depend on the weather.
So, Merry Xmas to all, hope you all have/had a great day with your loved ones.