December 2013  - Edition No.147

December and another year nearly over, with Christmas only a few weeks away . . . cards, cake, puddings, presents to organise!

Lots of thanks - to Carol Lucas and the Elderberry pupils of our school who have produced the wonderful colourful covers, front and back and inside; to everyone who once again sent Christmas Messages and for their very generous donations supporting both the Manor Hall and the Newsletter, Debbie for once again enhancing the messages with her delightful art work; and, of course, the contributors, especially the regulars - the backbone of our Newsletter.

The first issue of 2014 - can it really be fourteen years since we were all worrying about what would happen when we hit the millennium! - will be February and articles are always welcome as soon as possible and please by the 6th January at the latest. Apologies that this does not give you much time following the indulgences of the festive season! Do have a go at the Christmas Crossword and hand it in in the hopes of the prize by the same date.

We welcome all newcomers to the village and hope that all those 'under the weather' will soon be feeling a lot better. Interestingly, one explanation of this phrase comes from a nautical source. When a sailor was unwell he was sent below to help his recovery, under the deck and away from the weather!

. . . and talking of weather, not too nice just now but we must not lose sight of the fact that summer was good, better than in recent years. But what will Christmas bring us? There is talk of a hard winter and snow, but let's hope that for us it will be crisp [but cold] and sunny.

My sincere thanks to everyone - contributors and readers - for your continued support and my best wishes to you all. Have a Happy Christmas and New Year, and a peaceful and healthy 2014.

Judie - Ed