17 th. December.

Sunday, 17 December.
Had stopped up till one thirty last night watching films, expected to rise late this a.m. but no, I was up at nine and by ten was on p.c.
When I switched on the first thing to appear was a question from Pacquard recovery asking if I wanted to re- install any programs;
I went through the list and opted for works, thinking some of the work I’d struggled with last night may be salvageable, I was right, so I spent the time till 12. 30, editing some earlier snippets.
I then had to hurriedly get washed, shaved and changed to arrive at my parent’s house by 1 p.m. for dinner.
Once again, a huge meal.
I left with enough food to last me for three days and went in search of a petrol station because fuel was low enough to register on the red.
I found yet another station had been closed and demolished,
luckily I made it to the next one without running out and filled up.
I then ventured into town to seek out my baccy supplier; he let me down in a way by having only one brand on offer.
The brand I detest!
But beggars cannot be choosers so I was forced to accept; thinking if I detest it so much I may be able to make it last over the Xmas period and it may sicken me off.

I then went over the road and treated myself to an ice-cold lager before returning to Marske to the a.t.m.
Bank account is looking a little depleted but I’m not worried, will be back to par in January.
I withdrew some cash and returned home, quick phone call to my dealer and he thinks there may be some gear in the village,
Is going to check in an hour’s time;
I have chosen to try some gear because of the lack of effect from the spirits and my dislike for filling gut with beer or lager.
Just feel like I could do with a good relaxing session.

May get half an ounce, if available.

I usually would have taken the opportunity to have a bath at my parents, taking advantage of being able to lie down fully in a reasonable sized bath.
(Unlike the mini- bath I have installed).
But not this time, we spent the after lunch period talking about things in general and making plans for the forthcoming holiday weekend.

Its been decided I should as usual go up for my Sunday dinner and stay overnight, with the possibility of a trip to the pub on the Sunday night.

I told them not to be surprised if I throw up and explained my stomach no longer tolerates quantity like it used to. My father assured me he would be having his usual two sherbets, (shandies), so no great chance of too much revelry!
I suppose all the pubs in the towns will be open Xmas eve and day but over the moors, opening is left to the discretion of the landlords, some open 9 p.m.ish for a couple of hours.
My father likes to put in an appearance; he doesn’t, or rarely drinks at home so he gets a break and I hope my mother will help me make the time worthwhile for the landlord!
After all it’s going to be a busy weekend cooking two huge meals in two days.
I feel sorry for her having to do it but will show appreciation by cleaning up my plate as I usually do.
The town this afternoon was surprisingly quiet, I expected more life to be evident, but the pubs I use are well away from the shops.
So far my Xmas effort has been to write out two cards which I cadged from my mother, I have yet to send them; I’m notorious for writing them out then waiting till its too late and not posting them!

I have a card to buy for my parents and a couple of bottles for each and that is all.
Few tins of beans and some bread to see me through the period and I’ll be sorted. I don’t think I’ll bother with any booze, having had enough according to my notes!