Christmas Reflection 2021

 

Nunc autem quid ? 2019

Proxima! 2021

It appears I begin with an apology, there were no cards or communications sent in 2020! That is a genuine apology which is underpinned by the inevitabilities of choices, over which we had control and others factors outweighing our choices.

It was bloody Covid wasn’t it! I ended my 2019 Epistle with news of us anticipating a Cruise on the Queen Victoria - albeit a short cruise and we returned flying back into the clutches of Covid.

None of us knew what was to unfold. Never, it seemed in my lifetime at least, were we unable not to predict our immediate state of affairs. For us the outset was positive. I furtively, acquired a number of growbags, in preparation for an inevitable lockdown. The results ; well for us it was a Garden of Eden. We had all manner of things growing, edible and simply glorious plants and flowers. And the backdrop was the silence meal after meal sat outdoors. No traffic noise, everything it seemed was confined - except that which Nature had put in our midst. More amazingly, we actually managed to get away for some breaks too!

Later in 2020 – October 31^st we left Blighty for yet another couple of weeks, to seek refuge and enjoy the tranquillity and the isolation of our beloved cottage in Brittany. And we never came back! Well we did obviously - nearly six months later.

The world, was never to be the same again. Whilst we kept ourselves safe, Covid ran through my family and unbelievably my brother David did not survive the full force of it. The fallout of an untimely death is always devastating and that much harder to cope with. I might add here, that my admiration for my mother, is beyond measure in coping with something that is not anticipated in nature.

France, in fact wasn’t as safe a place as I make out. For in the time we were there (nearly 6 months) I lost nearly a stone & a half – not surprising in what we achieved. We hit out a doorway – just 28 inches of granite! Some of the rocks which we removed we both couldn’t even carry between us.

We momentously walked into 2021 through our new doorway on NY’s day. We won’t be forgetting that. And there was so much else we did in that time. Needless to say the Cottages (-now one!) are not the same.

It is seemingly unbelievable too that we have managed to get away this year. Travelling to both France and Italy! In fact, we drove down to Italy ‘in our bubble’. Trying like everyone to isolate ourselves as much as we could. Nonetheless. Recently, we finally had the last finishing touches made to the Villa and my ‘project’ in France nears completion too. A newly installed Wood-burner awaits to provide a warm reception; when we return next.

Mark has consistently – like so many managed to work from home. Like so many people too we have found ourselves together 24/7 and survived! But, it has also meant that he has actually had little ‘holidays’. South Africa was cancelled last Christmas – as was looking inevitable. And at the point of writing there is an inevitability unfolding which is looking likely to blow our immediate plans out of the water. (I guess, I might best reflect upon this next year DV!)

Everything it seems is so uncertain. None of us can seemingly lay down firm plans. That said, I already do have a framework in the planning to see us through 2022, with hopes of flitting between France and Italy – made all the harder by 90/180 days in Schengen. George V’s dying words were ‘Bugger Bognor’ & mine might for ever may be Bugger Brexit.

Our plans too hinge around our Sovereigns longevity – 70^th. We all have an extra day in which to celebrate (look at the Calendar quick!) We hope to be in Italy.

On a more positive note; it is incredible – for me at least. The Queen has always been there. An abiding presence, whether it be of stability, continuity and or accountability. Sadly, none of these qualities are matched by her Government. (I just thought I would get that in!)

And of course, I write now because, it is the season of Goodwill to all ‘men’. And isn’t part of that quote : ‘Peace on Earth’. It is this Peace, that I hope we can all begin to find, firstly, within ourselves, then our families, our communities and let’s vainly hope planetary.

So, let me leave you with some words of how I feel from two great philosophers namely Charlie Brown and Winnie the Pooh. Said Charlie Brown, “Goodbye always makes my throat hurt”, while the bear, supposedly of little brain, said “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”.

We are indeed fortunate and privileged. Bless you one and all.

Chris & Mark

Safeguarding and Abuse is there an adequate response from the Church of England?

2019 Christmas Reflection

Nunc autem quid?

Well, I can now guess the inevitability of the trajectory we have commenced upon. I have found it so hard to even think about writing a letter, in which to reflect upon this last year. Though, as we all know it was to be a momentous year and of course it has!

Writing, as I do the morning the thumping news of victory for a man, whose presence in No 10 is an embarrassment on the world stage… enough!

For those who follow me on FB. Facebook to those who are still hungover – from last night! It has indeed been a most momentous year. We have holidayed beyond our wildest dreams. The Five Star all singing, dancing, ‘Another cocktail sir? Try this one!’ At our hotel in Mexico and then the intrepid explorations of our own; in sampling the delights and above all the culinary delicacies of an amazing country. We were so sad to leave, but the sun went down! 

 And just tagged onto this was the delight of visiting family in N.Y. But, then to engage in what must have been the biggest party on Earth – as NY rocked to the beat and tune of Stonewall’s 50^th Celebrations. It is simply impossible to convey the atmosphere. So yes, there is more than enough to celebrate!

The year's first venture for the love birds was Verona, a delight! And yes, it is romantic discovering hidden gems in the January icy air. Then came the usual jaunts across to both France and Italy. The dates for the bite of the Big Apple were governed! But what to do to celebrate six decades?

The year's first venture for the love birds was Verona, a delight! And yes, it is romantic discovering hidden gems in the January icy air. 

Then came the usual jaunts across to both France and Italy. The dates for the bite of the Big Apple were governed! But what to do to celebrate six decades? Magical places came to mind and eventually, it was decided – Mauritius! Once again the magic for Mark of getting away with another 5* visit! But, whose birthday was this! So once again a car hire ensued and off we took on ‘our adventures’ in search of the real Mauritius, wonderful people, idyllic places, memorable serendipitous days spent exploring, and of course the food! We also had a change of habit! Finding wine rather expensive we cut back on that, on the Island of Rum! I was even more delighted that Pope Francis must have gotten wind of our being there & he also graced us with his presence, being flown in by helicopter! So we graciously lined the roads with the throngs of peoples of all shades of colour and genealogy and no doubt religion, to greet him.

Do you know I think I am missing ‘Storytime’. It has always been a delight of one’s teaching career to reward children at the end of a day at the desk, with Story! Yes, and old enough to say, ‘I have thrown the chalk away!’ (Or have I ? I may get bored!). But I also ceased to be a school governor - which stemmed back to my pre-teaching days of standing for the local Lib Dems. Having served as a Governor for over 29 years. I think I deserve a rest from that!

But, the year belies the reality of my own well-being. I can best put it as matters unresolved in another life! Some of you know the reality and its on-going as I write and more maybe forthcoming next year.

I may refer to this year as the year of doors! A new door in Italy & two new doors in France, all adding to the comfort and pleasure of our Anglo, Franco, Roman triangle. And then there are the doors that have closed and no doubt those that will open in due course.

We have also undertaken changes hereto in Chester, as Mark increasingly puts his stamp on things!





My mother has been through it this year, having spent numerous weeks in hospital, sepsis and other wonderful delights of the palette of ill health. And frankly, we are still nowhere in getting to the bottom of things, test after test. They know more of what she hasn’t got, than achieving a satisfactory diagnosis.

She visited Brittany with us and braved the elements visiting The Valley of the Saints to meet St Guen. (featured.)

I have also a few of my ‘older friends’ who are engaged in the battles of accumulation of years. A lass who I was at Theological College saying to me pointedly: ‘Old Age is not for the faint-hearted.’ I guess it isn’t, but frankly, there is always too much going on in my life to begin to feel old! Though, I might conclude that I have started for the first time in my life giving myself time to read!

I also have a hunch that I may be given to writing this year, which will be the sum of much research that I have had to undertake this last year. I have the title! ‘The Unholy Safeguard’.

My guess is next year – I shall be writing never judge a book by its cover!

How could I forget Amsterdam! Fabulous revisit and meeting up with ‘old’ Dutch friends, who I have kept in touch with for more years than I care to admit. And I do believe the Queen Victoria sails out of Southampton January 6^th (Feast of the Epiphany & therefore light!) bound for Hamburg! So, on that note, I will bow out as we are staying well connected with Europe! May God Bless Her and all who sail in Her!

My guess is a lot of us will be drinking a little more this Christmas! We shall be in France with neighbours and friends. Bon Noël.

Delightful news - just in: My niece has just brought into the world twins – two girls.

Chris

Time to contemplate!

If you have got this far the Latin at the top means ; What now.

2015 cemented, celebrated & consolidated

2015 cemented, celebrated & consolidated...

It wasn't going to happen; this missive that is! But, I relented in time... simply because this last year cannot go unlogged. It has been a very good year - I may prefer the use of the word - Vintage!

Not every day you get to appear in front of a Judge!

And it all began back in November 2014! We booked flights out to California (with B.A. who I swear I will never fly with again! But that's another story!) We were destined for San Fran where we were hoping to acquaint ourselves with the city for the best part of a week & then do the Big Sur! But, our plans were much bolder than that!

Our Wedding Day

The City Hall of San Francisco is a fine elegant building, designed to withstand earthquakes & whatever else is thrown at it. It is also the hallowed spot where the first gay wedding took place in the U.S. All made possible by heroic people such as Harvey Milk... And it was to this end that we pivoted our visit across the Pond! April 7th 2015 after 23 years together we sorted out our legal bit of paper! And actually that's all we did! That's all we wanted a piece of paper.. but what a back drop! For Mark it was also being on site for a wonderful Honeymoon! Who wants their mother-in-law on honeymoon?

Mum amusing herself.

When I broke the news to mum she was overjoyed & said she would have to come! Well, we actually did need a witness! And who better? This is mother who had said she was never going to fly again! Now about to go half way round the world... I suggested that she would never ever, undertake such a life times holiday ever, unless she did accompany us - it was done! We booked an apartment in San Fran for the best part of a week - hitched ourselves in the middle of that week, before we explored with mum the Yosemite, some of the coast line and Santa Cruz. We then packaged mother-in-law tearfully off, back to the UK - she had been complaining about being in the back of the Mustang with the lid off! And I think she was at this point both exhausted, not least due to sensory overload but also the pace!

Everyone needs a chauffer!

Goodbyes done we cranked up the pace! And then we were off down the Coast on Honeymoon! (So, I finish here with Cali !) Except to say, it took a lot of planning & hours spent on tripadvisor etc! But, it was well worth the effort and surpassed our expectations!

We did have further celebrations when we returned; to amass all the outlaws and friends @ Stanley Palace. The surprise here was to all, Mark included! I had arranged that an 'old' priest friend of ours would bless the rings and also two contemporaries of mine from Theo College days would also be involved... It was a lovely occasion & it meant that others could share in our newly found status!

The first bedroom almost finished!

As ever, the year has been punctuated with foreign skimishes both in France and Italy... After many years of DIYing in France (in Cottage No2). We were finally able to spend a night, sleeping most comfortably in a white room; on a new bed! This was a major mile stone! In fact, it is a result of a good deal of work on the cottage this year! The bathroom is almost finished too! The plumbing and the electrics (with the exception of the Consumer Unit) all done!

Does this man ever work? - I hear! Well, yes! The usual supply teaching role.. save that this year, I did a long term cover for a teacher in the School where I also serve as a Governor. Hilarious, when we got to our Californian trip! The head teacher had to get a 'supply' to cover for a 'supply' - as we were out of the country for 3 weeks. School was totally engaging & as ever it ended in tears - mainly mine! You do get attached to a class! It was also lovely working alongside colleagues.

On the ferry returning to Blighty!

Mother, despite her dislike of airports also accompanied us out to Italy - where we enjoy holidays now: in the Palazzo! She also came out to France to make an 'inspection'. And to finish off the 'holidays' we stole some sunshine in Nov staying at the villa but also enjoying a sojourn into 'The Eternal City' for a few days to mark Marks birthday. We surprisingly were able to undergo our plans to visit The French Embassy, though under even tighter security, (in the wake of the terrible events in Paris). It proved a much more emotional visit than anticipated!

Work continues for Mark at Barclays, now with his team firmly established - but it's always at a pace and with long hours of commitment! But, suffice it say, he finds it stimulating!

At the time of going to press, I have got in place four future breaks! So things ain't going to change in 2016.. but it can't be as good as 2015 - surely!
So, it remains, to wish you and your loved ones every blessing and good wishes for 2016!

Yosemite is awesome!

The 2012 Christmas Epistle from Deva

Well – if it all happens – Happy Christmas! What, with the Mayan Calendar predicting the end of all things for Fri 21^st Dec - not that I am an expert on things eschatological – but I may have held back on buying your xmas present thus far; just in case! And with 2013 to look forward to!

Whilst appearing to be a tad bah humbug, I have cut back on the many, many Christmas cards that we normally send this year and hope to do the same again next year... Really with the ‘Internet revolution’ now in its maturity, there is no need I feel to hold back and to do more electronically. Please if I don’t have an email address for you I would welcome one!

A real pleasure this last year has been rediscovering many friends through FB. (Facebook) ‘old’ college friends ‘blasts from the past’ keep hitting the screen daily! FB for me certainly has proved an excellent resource in keeping up with many people in many arenas!

Mark back in March secured employment working in Chester – which has made a considerable change to our lives – no longer the 6am alarm and returning home possibly as late as 7:30pm!

Read War of the Worlds? Well I could write the up to date version! Arrived home from work one evening went straight to my desk to feel the earth move! The aliens had landed! And the battle commenced! Esso had decided to replace an end of life Petrol tank at the garage opposite us – no admittance of leaks etc!! But due to the unique sub-strata of the terrain here – our hse ‘wobbled’ as they ‘Martians’ sought to destroy the concrete encased tank! Well. Needless to say it was a clash of Titans – my featuring in the local press once again! They went – the cracks in the house remained!

No mention of holidays yet I hear! Accused of being in semi-retirement by one certain personage! This year has seen its fair share of my making use of my ‘Visas’ in visiting both Italy and France – the latter more to do with work! Much achieved in France again! In spite of a visit in the summer where I encounted a jungle in what clearly (was) the Garden of Eden! We had to instruct a local gardener to take on the maintenance! (That is; once I had given battle!)

The mention of jungle leads nicely into a high-light of the past summer (or was it winter! – well who does visit the Southern hemisphere to winter?) Unless of course you are seeking a good safari! I had been enlisted by Fr Paul Nener to

organise and book a safari for a suggested group of ten folk to relive an ‘Out of Africa’ experience (Paul had been a surgeon out there many years ago!) And simply this he wanted to treat some friends! We took hundreds of photos, click here to take a look. We of course had experience of ZA some six years previous and wanting to top that – I found myself in correspondence with Archbishop Tutu’s P.A. (Mandela – was thought to be too old to meet us!) And so the ‘Arch’ as they call him out there arranged to meet up – as it happened on our last full day!

But it certainly ended up being a holiday to remember & indeed very much a holiday – away from tools for me! For those who are into blogs further can be read here also:
Tutu / Z.A.

The Villa finished, working out there in May & August it was wonderful to take advantage of last of the heat of the summer’s heat with mum with an actual holiday! Spent a very relaxing week with mum in the Italian kitchen exploring the cuisine for ourselves!

With winter coming in fast: working on the home front in Chester we are about to have cavity wall insulation – from the inside! So expecting some disruption! All will be saved by log fires in Brittany for the yuletide period! It is from there we will be thinking about you and yours this year & let’s hope the Mayans got it wrong!

Every blessing to you all this festive time and forget about the economy, the financiers & the bankers: For unto us a child is borne of two millennia and hope!

Motswari caramel chocolate slice

So much enjoyed this at the safari camp at Motswari - I asked for the recipe! Thanks Grace!

Ingredients:

One cup of self raising flour 140 g
One cup of dried coconut 90 g
One cup of brown sugar 250 g
125 g melted butter.

Filling:
400 g of sweetened condensed milk (a can)
30 g of butter
2 tablespoons of golden syrup.

Topping:
125 g of dark chocolate chopped
30 g of butter.

Method:

Base:
lightly grease 20 cm x 30 cm tray, combine sifted flour, coconut and sugar in bowl, add butter and stir until combined. press mixture of base. Press base mixture into the tray. Bake for 15 minutes -180°. Pour hot filling over the base and return for a further 10 minutes. Allow to cool add chocolate topping.

Filling:
Combine milk, butter and golden syrup In pan, stir over low heat, without boiling about 15 minutes or until mixture is golden brown.

Topping:
Combine chocolate and butter in pan and stir over a low heat until smooth.

Recipe can be made up to 3 days ahead.
Store in an airtight container.

Archbishop Tutu declares war!

 31^st August what a day to recall meeting up as arranged with Emeritus Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Little did I know he was to have just snubbed Tony Blair the day previous. But it was for no reason I had wanted to meet Desmond Tutu an octogenarian who has accomplished more than a lifetime’s work for peace – for me it was to be in the presence of a living saint!

  

Is this for real meeting this great man!

Visiting South Africa some six years previous it felt a very different place. A young country by democratic and civil rights with much still to address – but one could not underestimate what had been achieved!

Of course we all know the name Desmond Tutu – nobel peace prize winner!

Just occasionally, we have great leaders & prophets with a message for our times - Desmond Tutu is just so! Tony Blair however,  I have always had a deep suspicion of! Saddened,  I was upon my return from South Africa to see a champion of mine Canon Giles Fraser taking issue with ++Tutu.

For me Archbishop Tutu was able to speak collectively for those of us  with no voice (such as myself) and  who were given to taking to the streets (and those of us who wanted to and couldn't at the time - thru circumstances) - against crimes (actions) that were done in 'our' name.

The late Lord Bingham was pretty robust on the illegality of the Iraq invasion in his book "Rule of Law". However whether there is a case in law against Blair, he has become pretty morally repellant over his unwavering public insistence that the half a million deaths later the war was still right!

When Nixon was being considered for "high crimes and misdemeanors" at the time of Watergate the indictment on illegal war (against Cambodia) failed. Almost 50 years later it seems war is an area that national leaders can still pursue with impunity! It remains an indictment that today international law is not effective in dealing with such cases.

But I feel there is a case to be answered... Which is why I for one, was not was not in the least surprised that Mr. Blair  seemingly disappeared off the world  stage so quickly and more especially quietly and perhaps to a safe haven! I bet he thought that there were questions to be answered. And this remains the case!

At the time the written advice of the Attorney General, flatly warned Blair and the inner cabinet that the legal case for going ahead based on the first UN resolution was very weak indeed, hence all the energy and effort that went into securing a new one. Charlie Falconer knew this argument well enough last Sunday on Radio 4, yet proceeded on the basis that UN Resolution 1441 was sufficient. There are plans in the air to make waging an aggressive war a crime under the ICC but they have not been approved yet. If they are, they will not come into force until a year or so after 30 nations have ratified them. And they won't apply retrospectively, to Blair or Nixon. So Tutu is to my mind keeping it to the fore of our minds that change is needed!