Old and new Last weekend was particularly enjoyable. On Saturday afternoon, Tony and I attended the celebration at St Leonard’s Church in Exeter of ten years of Little Bridge House. For us it also marked ten years since we finished the Jogle – that marathon backpack from John o’Groats to Land’s End. We recalled the scene – a large group of friends and relations who had travelled many miles to welcome us, waving and cheering in the bright sunshine against a backdrop of blue sky and sea. It revived the recent memory of my own arrival at St David’s Head, the weather just as beautiful, again a large group of family and friends. The great difference, of course, was that ten years ago Tony was fit and strong, whereas this time he couldn’t contemplate such an adventure. However, we were still together, joining with many others in giving thanks for everyone involved with Children’s Hospice South West, and as a brave young mother told us of how much it had meant to her and her family to have such a haven through their dark journey, I realised again how lucky Tony and I are to still have each other at our ‘great age’. On Sunday our friends Jill and Rudi Birk had organized a mini Granny Trek. Again the weather was kind as the hardy walkers set off to the top of the Tor, where they were rewarded with a view that stretched for miles in all directions. On their return they were treated to a delicious brunch and the Birk house was filled with the warmth and friendship of those united in enjoying the occasion for itself, whilst at the same time raising funds for the Children’s Hospice. We were delighted to find the total donations amounted to £180. |