A year flies by almost too fast - so many to see and such pain in being unable to make the trip. And yet, another year of immeasurable goodness, even in the face of tears.
Welcoming our first grand-daughter, Georgia Rose, has brought so much joy - and our congratulations to Matthew & Hannah; saying adieu to Sue, Margaret and Viv hurts still. Welcoming and blessing new family and friends truly cheers the soul. We've been overwhelmed by generosity - seeing Paul & Carolyn at home was a long overdue visit, more than made up for by their kindness; we're indebted. Elaine and Alice amongst many ordained up north gave opportunity to be blessed by so many old friends and heightened how much we're missing you.
Family weddings: a joy to see everyone, family old and new, in the tepee in Timble for Alli's nephew. Being asked to help with music and sound for God-daughter Martha's wedding to Luke in the sunshine at Raveningham had a special twist: Sophie and Tim made the music fly in the style of Rend Collective - accordion, bass and banjitar plus capo'd 12 string - but we deeply miss Matthew and his gifted rhythm and percussion. Andrew's becoming stronger and wiser as roadie and sound techie - and finds it much easier to catch things these days. Alli's added a chalumeau to her flugel horn, baritone and recorders, Andrew is trying to work out how to play a melodica and an Irish Bouzouki* has appeared, with heartfelt thanks to So & Tim - already accompanying the Ad Hoc choir this Christmastide.
Birthdays come and go - and presents sometimes take a while to be delivered over the miles. Sorry if we've missed you - your card (and gift) may still be here! Do come some time and catch up - before we take off in Esta with her new Reimo roof. Or let us know when you'd welcome visitors...
Our love and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year
* Not quite the one in the Monty Python Cheese Shop sketch | 
