What a disappointment! The closest observable Conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn was way back in 1226, 794 years ago. (1623 is recorded as the last closest Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, but apparently, not able to be seen). Last night, Sunday, the skies were clear enough to be able to discern a bright Jupiter and the pin-prick image of Saturn as the two planets appeared to very gradually draw closer. Tonight, at around 5 o’clock, the heavenly bright light was not visible from Harpur Hill; North Derbyshire just isn’t the place for winter gazing into the night sky. I did look out, but saw nothing through the mist and cloud cover, all of which I understand will be gone tomorrow!
It seems the virus has mutated to something more contagious. I always understood that the Covid-19 was as contagious as it was possible to be. Now 40 countries refuse any form of transport/travel from the U.K. Are we the only country where this “thing” has mutated? Thankfully, I have no real reason to venture far from home, and with care, should still be able to avoid most risks. I still plan to go to Church on Christmas Day and join Roger for a celebratory meal in the afternoon.
Much to my surprise, I received a hand-delivered communication from the Friends of Buxton Station requesting anecdotes of my Railway career. This would presumably join other such accounts from former colleagues. I am always a little reluctant to commit my recollections to paper, but will submit some kind of an offering which I hope will be of some interest.
Another day draws to a close. On YouTube, a magnificent Advent service from Lincoln Cathedral provides a wonderful alternative to the junk on offer by the usual T.V. channels. The music and singing is magnificent, and flawless, even with occasional weird descants and unfamiliar words to “Hills of the North Rejoice”! The wonders of modern technology, and now a similar service, from Durham Cathedral begins. I have been to neither Durham nor Lincoln Cathedral, but St. John’s, Buxton has associations with Durham. We are extraordinarily fortunate in Buxton to have such talented choristers and musicians, and the annual candle lit Advent and Christmas services at St. John’s.
Perhaps I was a little unfair to the “usual channels”. Tonight, BBC4 had a most interesting documentary entitked “Charles Dickens’s Invention of Christmas”. My only gripe was one of the presenters flicking through, ungloved, priceless 19th century books and magazines as I would flick through a present day magazine at the dentist’s! This happens a lot on the telly, along with frequent misuse of the word “unique” coupled incorrectly with an adjective. Such an error at school would have generated deserved rebuke from my excellent English teacher.
All of a sudden, midnight is but 21 minutes away. I shall finish watching Durham Cathedral’s Advent service and then “hit the hay”.
Season’s Greetings David. 23.49 21/12/20.
David's Cruise 