I never saw it coming! (10/8/21)

Now! Where on Earth did *they* come from?

I have absolutely no recollection of planting, or ask to be planted, the two magnificent pampas grass “bushes” illustrated. Apparently, in certain parts, they can send an “inappropriate signal!” I don’t remember them last year; but there is at least one other garden on our lane, with a superb display. And there have been a lot of strong winds recently!

Two days ago, in Church, Guy’s 85th birthday was marked with an “un-Anglican” singing by the congregation of Happy Birthday. For the first time since March last year, we were issued with hymn and prayer books as well as the order of service and a very simple news sheet from which one could follow the readings and some of the prayers for that day.

I was one of around 75 people invited to Guy’s birthday party at his magnificently restored residence, just five minutes’ walk from the Church, where I chose to leave the car.

Few people were on duty at St. John’s on Sunday morning, and thus, I had a couple of other small tasks as well as presiding over the mixing desk.

The weekly sermon is usually quite thought provoking. One is made comfortable, initially by some often clever humour, before the real message is made abundantly clear. Following thoughts on global disharmony, either between countries, various governments etc., we, in the congregation, as part of the sermon, were encouraged to take up the challenge not to be dismissive of those around us for an eight day period. Wow!

Back at the birthday celebrations, the afternoon passed quickly. Persistent heavy rain showers precluded venturing into the wonderfully landscaped grounds of Guy’s fine house. Nevertheless, numerous volunteers entertained the guests with an eclectic choice of music and song.

When most people had left, I drove home from Church, where I had left the car. I allowed myself the luxury of flopping in front of the “telly;” I think I watched an episode of Endeavour as well as catching up with the news. I could find little about the Closing Ceremony of The Olympics (Tokyo 2020), the only part of the event that I might have been interested in. But, I do feel a sense of pride and amazement at the number of medals Team G.B. brought home with them.