Sunday.

Just a quick blog to reassure all readers that we're back home from a few days in the West Country. All's well bar the fact that Picasa is playing silly beggars and refusing to publish photoes; so this blog will be verbal (?) - no- written only. Very busy (and enjoyable) day yesterday. It was the wedding day of Wendy (who blogs as WendyWhitecat) and David, a retired Minister of the C. of E. Church. As Wendy is a member of the U.R.C. (United Reform Church) there was a sort of double service held first at the U.R.C. then a procession (led by the -robed- choir- nine members, of whom Ann and I were two) across to St. Mary's Church, where the second part of theWedding Service was held, followed by Communion. I was very impressed (and touched) that an important part of the first service was giving thanks for their former partners - Alan and Carol. Although both Bride and Groom have been widowed in recent years, it was good to hear both previous partners remembered with such obvious affection and love. One fact I must mention on behalf of the choir is that during the combined service FOURTEEN hymns were sung!!!!! Probably a record, although thinking about it possibly not (although it felt like it during the 12th, 13th and 14th hymns). The last one was sung to the tune of Rule Brittannia, and has words written by the groom, David. Because of the tune, it's a good rousing hymn, which we all thoroughly enjoyed. After the service we all made our way to a double marquee on the Deanery lawns, where a hog was being roasted, and a local silver band was playing. One thing I hope I shall always remember was a glimpse I caught of the groom (in full clerical vestments) doing the Floral Dance accompanied by the band. It was an excellent meal put on by our catering friends Ros and Simon Cook. I personally accounted for half a dozen mussels, a plate of roast pork (plus new potatoes) and a large segment of Ros's justly famous treacle tart with custard and cream. Followed by coffee. The party broke up at about 5p.m., Ann and I walked home, then napped for an hour. Altogether a memorable day.