December 2012
Enjoying a cappucino and a croissant at Hemel station (top marks to the ladies from Puccinos on Platform 4) my ears pricked up at the following exchange. Lady customer: ‘Where do you live?’ Puccinos lady: ‘Harrow. Where do you live, Hemel Hempstead?’ Customer: ‘No, Boxmoor’.

It was only when we moved to Hemel that we realised the important distinction between the area to the west of the Gade and the area to the east. Everywhere to the west is Boxmoor. But it would appear that nearly nowhere to the east is Hemel. People who live in Apsley will never admit to living in Hemel, any more than would a Piccotts Ender or a Woodhall Farmer. So that leaves just Highfield and Adeyfield, and what’s the betting they claim to be part of Redbourn!

With the weather turning cold it was time to look for a warming cup of tea while walking in the Od Town. As noted here previously there are not too many choices on a Saturday afternoon. So once again it’s hats off to Shirley Hall Florists for providing the best cup of tea and slice of coffee and walnut cake probably in the whole of Hemel. I’m not sure if it’s Shirley herself who served us but with the smell of fresh flowers it really is a lovely place to drop in on. I noticed that Enchanted Castles is also offering tea and cakes so I must report on that soon.

With Christmas upon us I have been out and about inspecting Christmas lights. I must commend Harpenden on having the brighthest selection. Their tree is especially colourful. The Old Town’s tree pales in comparison. As for the street lights they’re a poor second to the warm glow of the old ones that used to festoon the road. They are predominantly cold blues and greens. Bring back the reds and yellows! OK I know the old lights had the tungsten filaments which radiated only 10% light but 90% heat. Maybe it was the heat that made them so warm!

Well that’s my 2012 blog wrapped up. May I wish all my readers (so it’s you!) a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.