'Miss Blyth' Arrives for Lunch

An absolutely pristine morning up here in the far North East of England. One of those brilliantly clear, rain washed skies which wipes away all the memories of the cold, cloudy gloom that we've had for such long time. A light Westerly wind picks the temperature up from an early morning 5C., to the heady heights at noon of 13C!!. Already the locals are responding to the bright weather, on the way to church I spotted 2 open topped cars,with the drivers looking a bit self -concious but at least they're making the effort!.....

The sun streamed through the church's new Rose Window, dramatically illuminating the fair hair of an acolyte as he held the Bible for the Priest, prompting the good Father to remark with a smile, "and the sun shines on the righteous!" :-)

Esther...... Please Sir! Can I have some more?

We're looking after "Miss Blyth"again today. This is Esther, who at 92 lives in sheltered accommodation in town, and has been a long term visitor to us for Sunday lunch. A broken hip last year has slowed her up a lot but has certainly not affected her very healthy appetite. Marjorie and I serve her with a traditional English Sunday Lunch, a roast plus 3-4 fresh vegetables, gravy and the essential ingredient, a Yorkshire pudding. This is followed by an apple tart or if we are really in luck one of Marjorie's "Specials" a fruit crumble "to die for!" We're presented with two completely cleared plates and a bright smile of thanks at the end of the meal. She then returns to her favourite armchair to read the Sunday papers and just maybe "rest her eyes,"( momentarily, of course!)