Gathering

Wednesday was the day of my participants funeral. . In a beautiful local church next door to the rectory she and her family lived in years ago. The service was very moving and the hymn "How great thou art" seemed just right. We went back to the village hall where her family had laid out photo albums, her beautiful crocheted blankets were hanging on the walls and there was a huge buffet. People were remembering her as a lively, colourful, charming lady who had left a big impression on friends old and new . . And there were stories of her goat and peacocks and her love of a gin and tonic. There was also a man taking photos as people arrived at the church and throughout the afternoon. . I have always wondered about this and . . It seemed perfectly alright and fitting on Wednesday. I am really glad that I was able to get to know her and spend some time with her over the last 18 months. She will be missed by many people. " when through the woods and forest glades I wander, And hear the birds sing softly in the trees When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze"