Visiting the nuns

Sister Mary Baptist (on her scooter) was not well enough to come to Mum's funeral so I arranged to go to visit her today at the convent in Sunderland. She was a friend of my Dad first of all, then got to know Mum. (She was the head teacher at one of the schools Dad visited as an educational welfare officer.)

Sister Josepha and Sister Francis were also there to see me.

We talked about Mum and Dad. They wanted to know all about what I am doing and how I am coping. They are three of the most delightful women I know.

I told them about my charity knitting, so they told me about a project they do for the local hospital. One of the 17 nuns in the convernt makes a basket, another makes the sheets of broderie anglais and Sister Baptist crochets white blankets. These are used for stillborn babies. Josepha went to find one to show me and they are exquisite.

My extra shows Sister Baptist with one of the little baskets. I put is as an extra in case it would upset anyone to look at it. It's a service they do quietly and with devotion.

I met Freda in the city centre. I was completely confused by the changes in the shops and roads. The place looks very poor. Debenhams went long ago (shop is still there) and Marks and Spencers has closed recently. I was very sad to see the state of the place.

When I grew up there, the town was relatively thriving, with many men employed in the shipyards. 

Freda and I had lunch in the Council Offices. I was afraid we would not find anywhere other than pubs and fast food outlets.

Then I visited Kemps wool shop. This is where Mum bought all her wood. I usually order online, but it was marvellous to be there and handle the yarns before choosing. The shop has hardly changed over the last 40 years.

I called to see Myroon and Mark before making the journey back home.

Many emotions have been awakened. It will take time to process them.