A weekend of pre-Christmas fun began with a Friday evening story telling session from Janet Dowling who explained the Greek myths around Orion and nearby constellations in a most entertaining and memorable way. This included expert interaction from the audience who had to act out certain parts as required. It was a great way to get to know people at the Norman Lockyer Observatory, although somewhat a baptism of fire for one or two new members!
The following evening I was on duty as Telescope Presenter to the Lockyer Telescope. Although it was cold, windy, and cloudy, many people (40 or so) came along to learn about the Geminid meteor shower and to see around the Observatory. I love talking to such groups and they loved hearing about Sir Norman and the telescope. At the beginning a few lucky people did actually see the Moon close up through this magnificent telescope.
Thankfully, Sunday lunch was provided by some close friends so we could sleep on and take it easy on the Sunday morning. After lunch, we played a game of Sherlock Holmes which the friends had given us on a previous Christmas but never played themselves. Will we ever see them again? I hope so!
Karen Hedges 