Time to recover and reflect

In need of a wee rest after yesterday's antics !!

Took the photo of the pink sky as Mrs. B. left on the bus to go to town , had a coffee in the Cledonian Hotel to pass time before going to The Mercat Bar to join in the nights festivities. Lilian appeared but was lost in the crowd, so their tongues had a break before they eventually met. Gordon Leitch arrived along with the long lost Derrik Mills, both P.M's of 151 - We had just been asking about Derrik as he has been AWOL for ages. then lost in the crowd was Archie Snr and Mary - apologies from Mrs. b. who was horrified to learn they had been in the bar for an hour without seeing them - the lads are hopeless at passing on messages. Archie (Pole dancer), Robert and all got settled in with their drinks. The magic kitchen team of Claire , Jamie, David and Lauren prepared a feast , with a beautiful rich and mild curry . Kiera Murphy - resplendent in Santa suit started the comedy show, backed up with two other new faces, which was very good . Mrs B. was lucky enough to get a run home to Penicuik with Tam and Catherine who were dropping Sir Christopher's ma off at Fairmilehead - thanks Tam.

Later in the evening the musician ended up with a guest appearance from RGB jnr. did not quite bring the house down , but nor did he empty the bar !!

In the meantime , Sparky's ma had given us a run to the Lodge at Bonnyrigg where we were joined by Grant and about another 150 brethren for the Installation of Alex McBeth.

The installation ceremony was excellent and then this was followed by the Festival of St John (meal), speeches and entertainment to which about 130 stayed for - great night. From the gathered throng our musicians appeared, comedians, and the harmony was 1st class - aided by a copious supply of alcoholic beverages. You will see that the laid back golden oldies in the band used a variety of methods to wring tunes from their implements - .

We eventually managed to get a taxi at 3.45 a.m after standing in the freezing cold for a bit - and if Grant had had his way we would have been out all night

Just watching a re play of the x - factor and the group Il Divo have just sung a brilliant version of Amazing Grace, complete with a piper - very very moving.

So home, and of course the obligatory fried egg role and cuppa before bed - crashed out cold.

Kind of delicate this morning , but Graham and Jo Jo appeared, it is her birthday today - so happy one Miss. We made her open her presents - nice bottle of champagne (high maintenance this girl).

Then Caroleanne called for a chat , seems that Swift Stuart (greyhound) won again this week - and we are getting some photos sent through of Swift Mercat.

I see that Jamie @ Shrek, has a new persona - the jailer Gregory, in the animated cartoon - The Tale of Despereaux !!! no doubt he will give me some stick about this.

So next job now.