We're not having a Christmas tree this year because we can't even trust Melly cat not to climb and topple a clothes horse.
These little horses were bought from Woolies a couple of years ago.
In these dark days, I'm not getting much chance to take pictures. So here's a compendium of the snappy portraits I've taken recently - mainly in November.
1: V: Top wife and in her own words: mountain walker, ice hurler, rice pudding maker.
2: A: Wicked sense of humour. That's not really her 'tache.
3: More a story than a portrait. The seated man apparently goes by the name of "Fellini". I don't know him - but he was having his head shaved to raise cash for my friend's dad, who has been unable to work as a taxi driver since an accident several months ago. All his colleagues clubbed together to do a benefit for him. I think that says a lot.
4. A: My soon to be sister-in-law, very charming and bearer of whimsical musical gifts.
5: S: Former colleague with an infectious giggle and a very large bunch of balloons.
6: A&S;: Two of my dearest friends, walking on the beach.
7: A: One of my oldest friends and certainly the best travelled. Eating cake in Liverpool.
ps. Yes, many of my friends do seem to have names beginning with A.
For the Christmas surprise box D. That brightened up my day.
Painting with poise on Rodney Street, Liverpool