An old friend

I had a busy day, preparing food for our visitors then this afternoon I walked down to Art Appreciation. Geoff did a really interesting presentation based on the Hare with the Amber Eyes. It encompassed history, art, patronage, family and inheritance, anti-semitism and more. It must have taken so long to put together. I must re-read the book.

We were asked to take along something we had inherited. Vivienne had an interesting story to tell about a pair of candlesticks brought by her grandfather from a Jewish enclave in the Belarus area of what was Russia around WW1. Diane had a lovely tortoiseshell box containing miniatures of 2 great uncles killed in WW1. My contribution was one of the walking sticks made by my dad.

Carole and David didn’t arrive till after 7pm as they stopped off in Newcastle to meet other friends. They were ready for the chickpea and kale stew with harissa and salads I had waiting for them. By 9.30 Carole was so tired she went to bed. She’s a great talker, seen here keeping us up to date on what she’s been up to. (We first met on the CND bus to Molesworth over 40 years ago and she was our daughters’ English teacher). David stayed up and told us about his very interesting work for his new local MP helping him help constituents in need. Some complex immigration issues and housing seem to keep him busy.

Carole is very keen on art (I suggested she bring her art pass) so for a surprise we’re taking them to Bishop Auckland to the palace and the Spanish Gallery as well. I hope she likes it.