endings/beginnings

It has been a beautiful sunny day, and quite an emotional one, too. A funeral, a phone call, some worrying news about a friend, but good things too - a reminder that life goes on, and that endings and beginnings punctuate the everyday.

This morning we said goodbye to Ken, who had been a friend of mine for almost 15 years. First, his funeral in St George's Church, Dumfries, and then a woodland burial. Ken loved nature and the outdoors - he was a great walker and birdwatcher. It was no wonder that he chose to be buried in a place surrounded by trees and wildlife.

In the evening we had a chance to look around Dunscore Church, which is nearing the end of extensive repairs and renovation. Over the next month, the painting and flooring will be completed, the interior fitting finishe,  the chairs delivered, and the building will be open once again, not only for worship but also for people to come and learn about the history of the church, the village and the life of Jane Haining.