Gransnet forums

Chat

Good Morning Christmas Eve 24th December 2025

(88 Posts)
Michael12 Wed 24-Dec-25 05:15:55

Good Morning Everyone,
A dark,dry and cold start to the day here in Brackley this morning.
Doing the usual bus trip to Bicester getting an earlier bus,will visit the bakery cafe for a coffee and maybe a sarnie , do a shop , hopefully see people I know .
Health OK,
Take Care,
Mick

grandMattie Wed 24-Dec-25 05:30:08

Good morning from a dry Bristol. Today promises to be lovely.
I never did the cleaning yesterday but made myself a skirt instead. I’ll wear it today. I had intended lining it, but didn’t have enough fabric.
I finished the wrapping, most of it in fabric bits, unfortunately not Christmassy, as the family has gone all ethical again. Their ethics seem a bit erratic, but who am I to criticise?
I shall wash the floors this morning, while the bread dough rises; I’m making cinnamon bread for tomorrow’s breakfast.
DD is borrowing my tiny air fryer, which will add to the heap of stuff to take. All the presents seem large and/or heavy. The FiL is picking me up in the late afternoon.
I hope that today is quiet, peaceful and worry-free for you all. Special thoughts for the fgts. MD, look after yourself.
Carpe diem 🦩🦩🕯️🎄🦩🦩🎁

Susan56 Wed 24-Dec-25 05:36:18

Good morning from Shropshire.A dry day forecast.

Food preparation today and then hopefully a relaxing afternoon and evening before the family arrive tomorrow.

Safe travels all on the move.

Thoughts to all especially those with mountains to climb and those who find this time difficult.

Wishing everyone the best day possible🦩🌻🎅🏼🎄

Melanie61 Wed 24-Dec-25 05:45:35

Looking very dark and cold out there at the moment.

I have DD and family coming for tea and opening of pressies today. I shall just do a small cold buffet. Nothing difficult.

Also looking after our grandog Cockapoo today , A great pleasure, he is such a sweet dog.

Take care everyone x

Bellasnana Wed 24-Dec-25 05:53:55

Good morning from Malta where the forecast is for a cloudy day with a high of 16°C.

Yesterday was windy but lovely and sunny so I felt glad to be out in it after a week confined to barracks.

Feel a new woman with my hair done and managed to buy a couple of things I needed before heading home to my sofa.

In the evening my wonderful son disappeared to the shops then returned and started busying himself in the kitchen, eventually producing the most delicious carrot and ginger soup. He said it was medicine and it certainly made me feel a lot better bring the first proper food I’d had. He’s a very good chef as was his father and he’s kind like his dad too.

No plans today. I find it all very difficult with so many loved ones missing. The sparkle went out of it for me when DH died and having my girls in the US just adds to the longing for how it used to be.

Wishing you all a lovely day whatever you are doing.🎄

grandMattie Wed 24-Dec-25 06:05:20

bellas, I’m happy for you, that you are starting to pick up again.
I agree; Christmas isn’t the same anymore, however kind people/family are. I retire into myself, plaster a grin on my face and “enjoy myself”.

Kalu Wed 24-Dec-25 06:23:26

Good morning all. Cold, dry and calm in Glasgow this morning.

I joined the chaos of christmas shoppers yesterday in a large shopping mall, my own fault as I left things till the last minute.
Went round in circles trying to find a parking space I then joined the throng of shoppers to buy a few things in The White Company, mission accomplished, I gladly hot footed it back to the car. Hairdressers this afternoon and gift wrapping at some point.

Best wishes to all for a good day and hopefully a bit of respite for those coping with difficult times.

karmalady Wed 24-Dec-25 06:34:34

Good morning from s somerset, the sun is on its way

I managed to occupy myself all day yesterday, somehow, mostly spinning and I finally made 4 skeins of yarn, I was pleased with them and cannot wait to see the yarn bloom after soaking

Just now it is a time `to get through` and it will pass but I don`t think it has been as bleak since DH died, perhaps because I am not as busy as in some years, last year I made a new allotment and that took all my time, almost every day through winter.

Today is more of the same but perhaps the sun will visit, I hope so, Final preps too and I will pack my car for a trip to Wales. other dd is on call for the whole time until after new year

I managed to make a little storage space in my kitchen yesterday, maybe I can carry on with that theme.

I hope you all have some peace during your day

Greyduster Wed 24-Dec-25 06:50:59

Good morning, Michael and all GNs from South Yorkshire where it is still dark, and colder than of late.

Yesterday was largely a baking day; chocolate brownies, more mince pies and a batch of coconut tartlets, which were an afterthought but I like them. Today I will make the sausage rolls, which is always a ‘late on Christmas Eve’ job, but I am expected at DDs by four o’clock today for two overnight stays so I shall have to crack on this morning instead as I have the car to pack later.

So…. One more sleep, folks! Have the best day you can!

Grandmabatty Wed 24-Dec-25 06:56:57

Good morning all from Polmont where it's currently 4° and dry. Bellasnana the carrot and ginger soup sounds delicious. Karma 💐 I'm sorry you are feeling low.
Yesterday was busy. I was at Tesco before seven and home before eight, having achieved everything on my list and more. Then my neighbour across the road popped over with gifts for the boys. We were talking when Dsil arrived with dgs1 who was happy to see us. Half an hour later dd arrived with dgs2 who had been at the barber's. They disappeared to drive to Edinburgh and the boys and I settled down to eat and play. They were very well behaved all day apart from a mad half hour when my aunt and uncle popped in and wound them up. Believe me when I say they didn't need any winding! After that, my brother popped in but didn't stay. He is fond of the boys at a distance 😂. Then unexpectedly my Saturday breakfast friend appeared with a gift for me which confused me as we had already exchanged gifts last week. I think she feels sorry for me with all that's gone on this year and my poor health at times. The extra gift was much appreciated nonetheless. Dd appeared a couple of hours later than they had planned because of a bad accident in my village. So once the boys left, I did none of the things I had foolishly thought I would.
Today I'll have to go to the garden centre for a plant in a pot for my neighbour. Then soup to make in the slow cooker and bread sauce to start preparing. At some point ds is arriving which fills me with such happiness. Those who follow know that he has not been in touch with us for three years until earlier this year. I'll pick him up from the station. In between I have an ironing to do and some gifts to wrap which I had forgotten about. Have a good day all.

nanna8 Wed 24-Dec-25 07:03:24

Good evening from Australia. Been a funny day today because I went to a friend’s funeral but it was a ‘happy’ one as far as they can be. Came home to make trifle for tomorrow, fingers crossed the custard sets, it looked a bit more runny than usual.
It is set to be the coldest Christmas Day for many years here, bizarre.
Hope you all have a lovely,lovely day tomorrow and don’t work too hard !

baubles Wed 24-Dec-25 07:04:36

Good morning from dark and damp South Lanarkshire.

We were looking after DD’s children last night and didn’t get home till very late. I don’t know why we didn’t just arrange to stay as we have to be back over there at eleven this morning to celebrate one of the birthday of one of the children. We are off to the Panto this afternoon then back home for a birthday tea.

Right now I’m finishing off my trifles and glazing two hams which I cooked yesterday then I’ll start loading up the car.

We’ve decided to come back to my church for Mass this evening instead of going to the one close to DD. I’m looking forward to it as I never get to my own church on Christmas Eve.

Wishing everyone a peaceful day.

Beechnut Wed 24-Dec-25 07:07:12

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas 🎄

BlueSapphire Wed 24-Dec-25 07:08:02

Good morning everyone from a still dark and dry morning in Northampton. I have been up ages having not been able to sleep, my head whirling with today's plans. In the end I got up at 4am and made tea and toast which I took back to bed.

I have already vacuumed the bedrooms and staircase this morning, cleaned out the cats' litter tray which will go into the.garage shortly as DCats went off to the cattery yesterday. They went into their carriers with no fuss and were collected at 3pm.
I have also dressed the dining table with the Christmas tablecloths, done a load of washing up from last night, and emptied the dishwasher.
Just got to vacuum downstairs.

And then I'm going to get an early bus to the shops as I thought of a couple of extra things I needed.

When I get back a quick lunch then put the presents round the tree.

The family start arriving around 4ish and DD-out-law will prepare her usual delicious Swedish Christmas Eve meal. DGD1 has asked if her boyfriend can come and sample a bit of a Swedish Christmas and of course he is very welcome.

Missing DH more than ever this year; he loved Christmas and being with family and it meant so much to him. As I've been getting things ready I keep thinking "Oh, DH would have loved this and been so happy, it's not fair he isn't here ", and have to wipe away a few tears. But then I think I have a lot to be thankful for.

Wishing all a peaceful and happy Christmas Eve.

.

ginny Wed 24-Dec-25 07:19:31

Good morning. A busy day for us starting with DH collecting the Turkey and ham from a local farm. Food preparation and transportation of various items to DD2s who is hosting tomorrow.
There will be a short visit from DGSs 2 & 3 and then we will see them on Boxing Day.
Sending thoughts and good wishes and hope everyone can find some peace and happiness at this time.

Redcar Wed 24-Dec-25 07:26:53

Good morning everyone from mid Essex. It’s cold and dry out, no frost but a fresh easterly breeze blowing. Dentist yesterday morning was good, just one small filling which I knew about and which he filled without anaesthetic. He is very kind and complimented me on my walking, knowing I have problems with my back. The drive there was easy but I ached afterwards. I visited my dementia friend in the afternoon, she was asleep all the time I was there, but her DH and I had a pleasant chat, reminiscing about our schooldays!
My son in law will collect me and a car full of food and presents at sometime today - needless to say I have no idea when he will arrive!

karma I’m sorry you’re feeling ‘down’ at the moment. it’s a difficult time of year to get through.

kalu you were brave to venture to the shops yesterday, possibly the busiest day for shopping, certainly round here.

bella I’m pleased you’re feeling a bit better now, especially after the carrot and ginger soup! It sounds a good “pick me up”.

Thinking as always for those gransnetters who are struggling in any way and hope that today brings some improvement for you all.
Have as good a day as you can.

Marydoll Wed 24-Dec-25 07:37:57

Good morning all from Glasgow, where it is 6°C

You sound much brighter Bella.
Kalu, I was talking to the General Manager of that Shopping Centre, yesterday at the funeral. He advised me to avoid it!!

Yesterday, the church was full to the very high ceiling with mourners.
We had put extra chairs for Christnas, thank goodness we did.
I saw people, I hadn't seen in years.
The deceased's daughter, whom I know, read the eulogy and I could hear lots of people trying to smother sobs.
A brave young woman, to stand up and do it in front of so many people.
The only time, I have seen so many people at a funeral , was when my friend died. A passing police car had to stop and manage the traffic, which was gridlocked.

As a I was pottering about the sacristy, a former colleague came to see me. The previous day, I had posted a message about our deceased parishioner and she needed clarification.
Unfortunately, we have two parishioners, with exactly the same base. She came to ask if it was X of the church or X of the bowling club.
The bowling club thought it was their member and were mourning him. It caused a such shock, when he was spotted in the Main Street, after everyone thought he had died!!!
The parishioner asked what was wrong with my eye?????
I had no idea what she meant, until I got home.
I had burst a blood vessel, due to all the coughing. It is pretty awful looking.

I had a busy afternoon, mini sttcky toffee puddings made and the Christmas cake decorated.
I then finished the rest of the wrapping, except DH's.
I had totally forgotten about him! 😂 it will be done today.

A very early start for us, we are off to a funeral, unfortunately it involves three motorways and DH is rather anxious.
My greatest fear, is that thee no otorway services on this journey. Diverticulitis flare up and a weak bladder are making me rather anxious.

Apparently DD is coming down to wreak havoc in my kichen with the turkey, DH had to clean and clear the garage fridge of booze yesterday, as per her orders instructions.
I am glad I will be out!😉
She has 'previous.'

I wish you all the best of days, especially for those, who find this time of the year very difficult.💐
I didn't have time to go back and read the posts yesterday, I am send a hug to Blossoming.

I must go. DH has lost his black tie, which I kept with his newly ironed shirt. 😡

Ashcombe Wed 24-Dec-25 07:39:55

Good morning from a dry but very windy Torbay.

It must be a poignant time for those who are without loved ones this year. I hope having family around will be a comfort to you, BlueSapphire.

Yesterday, we went into town on the bus but it was surprisingly quiet. We enjoyed a walk round with refreshment breaks in a pub and Waterstones where we had lunch. DH forgot to bring the foil from tablet packs to recycle at Superdrug. 🙄 (one of the main reasons for going) Our quest for tree lights was unsuccessful and we ended up patronising a shop near home that sells all sorts. Adding lights to an already decorated tree isn’t easy…! 🎄

nanna8: my DD1 and family are over from Geelong, VIC currently as it was the funeral of her FIL on Monday. They have found it chilly here although my DGS1 from Australia had hoped to see snow!

Wishing everyone a peaceful Christmas Eve. ⭐️🎄🎁🧑🏻‍🎄⭐️

monk08 Wed 24-Dec-25 07:41:52

Good morning all from a dark but dry Black country.
Need to drop DH prescription round to pharmacy and a quick dive into Aldi to pick up a couple of forgotten bits.
Safe travels those on the move and virtual hugs where needed, have the best day you can everyone whatever your plans and may you all find a little bit of ☀️.

Gagagran Wed 24-Dec-25 07:46:53

Good morning everyone from a chillier south coast.

Lovely to read of all your busy "doings" and feeling a bit lazy as we are having a very low key Christmas. Just the two of us and easy meals planned. DD is coming on Monday with the two DGC - although they are now in their twenties so should really be called DGAs I suppose. Son-out-law is a hospital consultant and is on duty all next week so unfortunately will not be joining us.

We have much to be thankful for and will enjoy the peace and quiet and share memories of Christmas past. I hope that those who have lost their DHs or partners can find a little comfort in their loneliness by doing the same.

Kindest regards to all who are sad, suffering, lost or lonely particularly at this time.

Virtual hugs available to anyone in
need. There's nothing like a good heartfelt hug for unspoken comfort.

Usedtobeblonde Wed 24-Dec-25 07:50:03

Good morning from Stockport where it feels decidedly chilly after a few mild days.
Another one here feeling very emotional, tears are never far from the surface and we have no small children here to lighten it but I shall get through the next couple of days and then all shall be well.
Greetings to you all and hope the unwell among you feel better soon and can enjoy Christmas.

cornergran Wed 24-Dec-25 07:51:02

Morning Mick, morning All. A dry day forecast for our corner of Somerset, Alexa says the sun will appear.

Yesterday was odd. We visited two supermarkets, both with very busy car parks and then few shopper inside. Not that I complained. We were out and back in 90 minutes including a coffee stop. Excellent. Chatted to two friends on the phone, one has been floored by the flu virus, the other is quite unwell and more than stressed about practical issues in her home. I counted my blessings.

Ironing for me this morning, a kitchen to clean and last minute tidying. Mr C will clean the bathroom and we’ll be ready to welcome Santa. Veg will be prepared this evening with 🤞 tomorrow works as planned. Our son was unwell yesterday, he says a cold, we hope not the flu virus. I worry as he lives alone. Always something for sure.

My thoughts go to everyone finding this season a difficult one for whatever reason.

Wishing you all the best Christmas Eve it can be.

brook2704 Wed 24-Dec-25 07:51:23

Good morning everyone from Inverness where it’s still dark and looks dry
A little bit of food prep to do today, nothing much. DH and I will go out for a short walk somewhere this morning and then a coffee afterwards. Other than that I’ve nothing planned. I’m still trying to shake off this cough and I’m still feeling tried after the virus, I’m certainly sleeping a lot anyhow 😴
Safe travels to everyone on the move today and hope the traffic isn’t too bad
Thinking of everyone with worries and struggles, hope today is gentle and take care all whatever the day brings 💐

Liberty Wed 24-Dec-25 07:52:16

Good morning from a still dark Suffolk where the weather turned very cold last night.

We’ll do today what we always did when the children were little….bring in and decorate the Christmas tree,put on display my mother’s knitted nativity and display the cards. The tree is a tiny live one with roots that lives outside from 7 th January. Years ago it was several feet tall dug up by DH from a field of a local farmer.

But things change and we are happy to go along with the changes.

I’m visiting my dear friend in the Care home taking along a bottle of delicious dry French wine I introduced her to earlier this year and we’ll enjoy a glass together. She can then enjoy the rest of the bottle over the rest of today and tomorrow.

It is the Carols and Crib service in the church at the bottom of the garden late afternoon and then a quiet peaceful time here until DS and tribe arrive for Boxing Day. We’ll talk to the DD’s and DGC as well tomorrow.

I hope all have a lovely Christmas especially those not feeling their best or caring for others.

WhiteSwan63 Wed 24-Dec-25 07:58:25

Good morning everyone from the East Coast.
I was woken by my phone indicating my soon was calling to do a video chat from China.

Today is our Christmas dinner but not until four o’clock when family will arrive. Alot of it is prepared so it won’t be too stressful. There will be 11 of us around the table and I’ll plate up a dinner to take round to mums tomorrow.
DH has a sackful of gifts to give out around the table that’s his thing and he will set the table and will keep the washing up cleared away as I’m cooking. We are a good team.

I love hearing about everyone’s festivities seeing friends and family. It’s very heartwarming 💐
Sending Christmas love and best wishes to you all and thankyou for sharing snippets of your lives. It’s been a pleasure participating in the good morning thread.
Merry Christmas 🎄 🎉