A gathering together of the photos from the last few days and weeks leading up to what has been quite a busy Christmas period. 

The theme that draws them all together is 'Christmas Lights'

and as a result of these events, Loes and I have had a very sociable, festive time so far this year.

A trip over to Loes's house in Harewood Village Yorkshire, allowed us to visit Harewood House and see their Christmas lights display.

Outside, the twenty four doors and windows of the main house were numbered like an advent calendar

Our journey started in the 1980's with a disco glitter ball . . .

lighting a room dedicated to Elton John, including his wild, stary-eyed glasses and a feather boa.

The year 2000 was all about outside lights for the masses as technology was offering waterproof Christmas decorataions.

It was the year people really started to decorate the outside of their homes for passers-by to see.

The statue of Orpheus (suitably demure) graced the 1996 room.	1957  The first Queen's Speech on television (streaming the TV recording)

There were many other decorated rooms upstairs and downstairs, including a silent disco in the ballroom,

deep, moody red, blue and purple light display in the kitchens and garlands in many of the corridors.

Outside in the gardens the Harewood Orpheus statue was illuminated in white garlands.

The formal garden borders were edged in smaller lights and the trees swirled in tinsel.

The children enjoyed their trip in the sleigh . . . even though they didn't travel far.

By the time we had walked around, the daylight was fading fast and the golden windows now shone with light.

Time to follow the garlands back along the carriage drive to the main gate and then home to Loes's house for the rest of the long weekend.

- - - o o o - - -

Back in Cumbria it was time for a little last minute shopping.

We headed over to Keswick in the afternoon

but also took the chance to walk the dogs down at the Boat Landings and round to Friar's Crag.

No boats today but the views are there for all to enjoy.

The classic chair on the outer end of Friar's Crag looks up the lake towards the diminutive Castle Crag

set in the Jaws of Borrowdale with the high fells beyond.

By this time the Keswick illuminations were starting to shine in the failing light.

Two final calendars delivered to the garage, it was time to wonder into town to visit a few of the shops.

The climber is still climbing The Moot Hall.

'Ye Olde Friars of Keswick' had an inviting display of Christmas confectionary and a waterfall of stars.

Christmas garlands grace the front of the Skiddaw Hotel.

Loes and I didn't walk away empty handed after our visit to town.

A Merry Christmas from Keswick.

- - - o o o - - -

Not to be outdone, Cockermouth also had a Christmas lights display.

The town's Main Street, bright with festive lights.

Likewise the shops are in Christmas mood.

[ I believe there was a dressed window competition again this year but I don't know any results.]

The tree stands on the central island close to the Mayo Statue.

The pub in the background is called The Fletcher Christian, after the famous English Mutineer who led the Mutiny on the Bounty in 1789

and who was born in this town.

Station Road lined with lights and busy with shops and cafes.

Let's not forget one of the more out of town pubs . . . The Swan up on the Kirkgate Road.

We had great support this year and even managed to sound good as well.

Many thanks for everyone who donated time or money to the cause.

- - - o o o - - -

The 77 Club, the village Social Club, organised a Christmas evening at the hall.

- - - o o o - - -   We were entertained by Alte Musik of Cockermouth who played various older tunes and carols on traditional woodwind and reed instruments.   Click here or on the photo for a 2 minute video - - - o o o - - -

. . . may it bring you joy this Christmas.

With the 25th just around the corner, may we also wish you a joyful Christmas and a Happy New Year . . .

from Roger and Loes,  Dylan (out of picture) and Dougal here in magic Loweswater-cam-land.