Every Christmas day for the last 9 years (since we have had the dogs) we have a tradition of going to the coast to walk on the beach. Come rain or shine, we still go.
So, Christmas Day 2012, the wettest year on record, the forecast was predictably gloomy! But we are not easily put off, an 80% chance of rain did not stop us making the flask of coffee, with a little nip of whisky in, packing it in a bag with some home made chocolate brownies, kitting the dogs out in rain coats and jumpers and we were ready to get on the road!
Camber Sands is our most local sandy beach now that we live in Kent, and if you have never been, you should go. Miles of sand and dunes and although the little town is not really what you might call picturesque the beach is stunning.
The rain pelted down all the way down through the lovely countryside, and when we arrived we did have to wait 10 minutes in the car with a cup of coffee as even we were wondering what we were doing, the dogs had been thinking that since we left the house! But as if a Christmas miracle had happened the rain stopped, and the sun even showed its face!! So we got our hats and coats on and off we went!
It might have been dry, but the wind was gale force! Bracing was the word we used! The dogs had a fantastic time, Frankie running in the dunes and Bruno chasing a frisbee that flew in the wind.
Frankie in mid flight!
Bruno going against the wind!
The sky was magnificent and we were not alone in our madness, there were other dog walkers and even someone on a horse.
So all in all, we were glad we had made the effort, it was fun and exhilarating and it always fills me with joy to see my whippets running around, doing what they do best!
So here is to tradition, and if you can't be traditional at Christmas when can you be!
Happy New Year, and we look forward to sharing 2013 with you.
