After about two minutes, we came to the first of the not too hilly bits:
The view was pretty spectacular along much of the way. The Good Lord blessed us with perfect weather and some welcome breezes on the higher sections.
At one point, the path obstinately refused to go along the route that was indicated on the map. Undeterred, Dan demonstrated how to negotiate the barbed wire.
There were a few of those "Lord of the Rings" moments in the wooded sections.
and a few more of those not very hilly moments. Joking apart, Trefor did a magnificent job of researching the route and guiding us. It was a most enjoyable afternoon.
At Detling, Pip, Helen and Caroline were waiting with tea, rolls and home made cake. There was also some good beer to be had in the pub (I had Ruddles, others chose IPA or Old Speckled Hen.) Noticing the lack of ashtrays, I realised that there was probably something awry. It was indeed that most absurd of institutions that will spring up all over the land on my birthday this year - a non smoking pub. As Jeremy Clarkson might say "What's that for?"
Speaking of Mr Clarkson, you may notice that the car parked nonchalantly outside the pub is in fact a Ferrari. When the owner came out and spent some time getting into the vehicle and adjusting various things prior to lift-off, he could not but become the centre of attention. The throaty roar was delayed, however, as he got out again and said sheepishly that he had left the keys on the bar. Never have 14 men had such a missed opportunity!At Aylesford in thanksgiving for the day, we had Benediction in the charming Cloister Chapel with prayers to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
7 comments:
Sorry to hear you were booted out of the pub for a well-deserved cigarette, Fr Tim. I used to be against the smoking ban too; although I've never been a smoker I do feel that it smacks too much of the Great Nanny State.
I'm afraid I changed my mind after Hugh was born. It never ceases to amaze me how people will light up with a small baby only feet away. Even more amazing is the abuse one can get when asking people to stop! (I like to think we're not being paranoid new parents about this: research has shown that tobacco smoke is the one of the greatest risk factors associated with cot death. Aside from this, it's not nice to see a small baby cough every time a whiff of smoke blows their way).
So, the problem with allowing people to smoke in public places is that it effectively constitutes a ban for other people with babies and small children. Perhaps if smokers were more thoughtful and observant it would not be necessary.
Thanks, Edumund. Actually I'm not that opposed to the smoking ban, really. It seems a pity that pubs etc. can't have a smoking room but hey! it's not the end of the world. It might even prompt me to heed my sisters' warning and those of so many doctor friends and pack it in.
There's a certain priest in Rome, writes a blog about translations, that is looking for a Ferrari. Alas, a missed opportunity....
Bet you're pleased you didn't go in a cassock this time!
You do get about don't you Fr? i'm getting quite envious of your social & spiritual life!
One of the things that I am able to say when young people ask what it is like being a priest is that in 22 years of priesthood, I have yet to have a boring day :-)
You've inspired me to get back on track with the family, in organising healthy, Catholic social events...& no day needs to be boring. Indeed Catholic life & culture is anything but.
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