The Salvation Army

Date: 07 December 2008 23:20:01

Yesterday The Mister and I went Christmas shopping in Leeds. As far as shopping trips go it was fairly successful and we managed to buy quite a few bits, but as expected it was absolutely heaving with people. However, the highlight for me was hearing the Salvation Army band playing Christmas carols in the streets. I love the sound of a brass band and hearing the Sally Army playing brings back memories of my childhood. I vividly remember the band going around the streets in Guernsey playing carols and I remember leaning out of the window when I was wearing my pyjamas and listening to them playing Silent Night. When they started playing this particular carol yesterday my eyes just filled with tears. It kind of took my by surprise because it started me thinking about Gran Nora. Being away from home makes it easy to forget that she isn't going to be there when I go home for Christmas. Suddenly the realisation that she won't be there this year hit me and hit me hard. Last year Christmas was horrid for me. I cried my way thought Midnight Mass and felt rubbish all Christmas day. The first half of 2008 was very tough for me but it improved distinctly from the end of August (no guesses why!) For a change I feel optimistic about Christmas, despite there being some news which I know I will find difficult to deal with. However, this year I feel that there is hope. This year I hope it will be a new story.