Remember, remember...Guy Fawkes comes early!

Sophie was off to Birmingham with work today so I drove her to Mum's house at 6.30am where she met her manager. It was then home for me and a much-needed cup of coffee!

During the morning I changed our bedding and sorted out the two pumpkins outside the house. I dried out the seeds in the oven for the birds (but not really sure whether they'll eat them) and cut up the flesh into chunks to put on the compost heap. I also hoovered downstairs again (you'd never know I did it all on Tuesday) and then went to have a long soak in the bath!

Sophie was home by 5.30pm which was great news as we were off to see the bonfire and fireworks in the village and it all kicked off at about 6pm. She quickly changed and Keith gave us a lift into the village where we walked the short distance to the field where it was being held. There are roadworks going on at the moment along this stretch of road and I think it has something to do with gas as there was a slight whiff in the air and deep holes had been dug out. Luckily it was well-lit - it wouldn't have been goof if someone had fallen down into one of them!

We were among the first to arrive and as Sophie hadn't had much to eat today she bought a burger from the team of volunteers helping out. She pronounced it delicious and after a little while we indulged in a hot chocolate each. No mulled wine this year!

At 6.30pm the huge pyramid of wood was lit and very soon it was burning brightly and sending out smoke and sparks. We could feel the heat from where we were watching! I texted Michelle to ask if her and Richard were coming along, but about ten minutes later we spotted them! It was great to have a chat and catch up, and watch the splendid display of fireworks above us. The team who organised them certainly excelled this year as the night was a huge success with loads of people attending and a long display that was fantastic, with vivid colours and some really loud bangs!

Once it was over we said goodbye to Richard and Michelle and made our way gingerly home in the dark. Keith had been home since 7pm and had prepared a chicken curry for dinner which was almost ready to be served. Mike was nowhere to be seen and hadn't come along to the fireworks as I'd hoped. Never mind!