A Different Christmas. . . . . . . . . .

We made it!  
Arrived here at Heathrow Airport, London this morning, right on time, after a smooth

 flight through the night. Signs of Christmas everywhere. This was the bus station
 where we enjoyed a coffee - so much better than what they serve in flight - whilst
 awaiting our bus to Southampton on the Hampshire coast. 

This evening we took a walk to the German Christmas Village in Southampton's
 city center. As darkness fell, the festivities included an early visit from
 Father Christmas flying in his sleigh across the sky. . . . . . . . 

. . . . . . then he came down to earth to meet the children and hand out treats.

Then, as it turned chilly, we headed to a quaint old pub for a fish and
 chip supper by an open fire, taking a few photos of the interesting historic buildings
 along the way. 

We are tired having skipped a night of sleep, but we believe 
that staying up, staying awake and then going to bed at the normal time 
the best cure for jet lag!

Tomorrow we embark on the ship and sail away to the first port of call, Lisbon, Portugal. 
Two days at sea with plenty of time to unpack, get organized, and relax at last.
Note, I've had no time to learn how to get decent night shots with the new camera!
Will try to do better next time.