Left Reading about 1130 a.m. after getting the car washed and filled, and arrived in Whitchurch around 1.45 pm. A very pleasant journey with not too much traffic on the roads, a radio that now works (thanks Ray!) and lovely sunny weather. Sunny, that is, until I crossed the Severn Bridge (5 pounds 40 toll!! - doubled for NZ equivalent) and it hasn't really stopped since.
I walked into the village and an elderly gentleman called to me across the road "have you got an umbrella" and then suggested that if I'd had one I could have lent it to him! Thereupon he crossed the road and we stood talking for about 5 minutes then departed, firm friends - David and me - with two kisses on the cheek and a farewell welsh greeting. I must still have "it" !!!! Quite brightened my day.
Shirley and Kate (the bride to be) run a homestay for dogs. The dogs stay in the house and get taken for 2 x 2 hour walks each day. Usually they have about 8 dogs staying at any one time, but this time there are only 2 who go home first thing tomorrow morning, just before we leave for Port Merion (the wedding venue) in North Wales. They also have a small cattery attached to the house and a dear little white kitten (Suzie) arrived today for a 10 day sojourn. Poor little thing was so traumatised by the two big cats in the adjoining room that she growled and trembled her way through the evening, until I took pity on her and suggested she be allowed to sleep with me tonight. She's presently impersonating a bedside lamp, on the table beside the bed (peering out between the tassles of the shade) but at least she's relaxed and settled for tonight, anyway.
There will doubtless be countless wedding photos upon my return. Don't go expecting any of me. I'll be the poor relation - trousers and floaty top - no hat, but high heels. The others seem to be in dresses (as does everyone over here it seems - hope THAT'S not a trend that gets to NZ) and hats. But at least I'll be comfortable.
There's to be a posh dinner tomorrow night before the wedding on Friday. Any thoughts of having a slimmer waist upon my return are a figment of my imagination ... but at least it's because I'm enjoying much excellent hospitality now - and not the comfort eating of the past 11 months!
I won't take my computer with me to Port Merion so probably won't be back in touch until about Sunday or Monday. I'm sure you'll cope!
Nos da x
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