Hyacinthe

The weather is so terrible I thought I would take the opportunity of this small window of sunshine and hyacinths are a favourite. The scent also holds memories for me of the first day at a new school aged 11. The window sills of the hall were lined with many pots of the flower in many pastel shades exuding their strong powerful smell. It was a happy school so no sad feelings there!

Last night it was the carol service in the local tiny church and N, T and I and four of his young friends went along. Every window ledge was decorated in candles and winter foliage. The Benefice choir sang their hearts out along with the children (eight of them all cousins from the same family) who performed a Christmas miming song. Afterwards still sitting in our pews we enjoyed mulled wine and mince pies. It was lovely to see all the locals and exchange seasonal greetings before winding our way down the lit medieval path past the manor house to our muddy vehicles.