Slowly their house filled up. Kate had asked Robert (a retired Church of England priest) whether he would do the service for us. I think he is finalizing his sermon here. In the back, the picnic making was going on.
We used the tent roof to set everything up in a circle. David had borrowed service leaflets from their church. We were 13 family members. It was very meaningful and uplifting.
After a quick cup of tea we piled into 3 cars and went to the sea. Mudeford was quite close but the parking is a bit of a problem.
Those who were dropped off lined up in a long queue for the ferry and went over. Those who had to park the cars and walk further came a little later in the next "batch".
Maite wanted a photo of their family with the "cabañas" in the background. Wouldn't it make a nice Christmas photo?
Time for the picnic lunch. Jane is passing out sandwiches.
David had gone into the sea as soon as we had arrived. He likes cold! Not sure he had lunch but he finally relaxes.
Oh yes, I went into the sea too! Up to my ankles. The seaweed actually looked very healthy.
8 actually had ventured to have a swim. Even Spanish Maite thought the water temperature wasn't too bad. James and I had a legit excuse because we had totally forgotten to pack our swim wear which is going to be a bit of a problem when we drive to Richmond from Nashville with William later.
Afterwards: sun protection!
And then a walk. After two swims David opted to stay with all the bags.
Up to the look out.
The others walked a little further. James took the next three photos. I went back slowly. I ended up the day with 11,061 steps anyway. You will be pleased to know that my knee is holding up pretty well. Saturday it was only 5181 because we sat and talked a lot but Friday I ended with 15,086 steps.
Time to take the ferry back. The queue was long. It is only one ferry going forth and back. Just in front of us we were stopped but then were told they could take 7 more ... which meant 6 went and 6 were left.
At the other end we were refreshed while waiting for them!
Back in the three cars. Kate has an open top car which Maite, Sam and Paul thoroughly enjoyed.
We helped David to take down the tent roof. I was amazed how practical this thing was and what a difference it made. Easy peasy.
David put up a garden shower for the boys. It was short lived because it was getting colder the longer it ran. They did enjoy it though. Their faces were precious.
Dinner time. Kate had made a most delicious quiche and there were also lots of leftovers. All very nice. And still outdoors. Everybody is marveling about the weather.
And yes, pudding.
We sat and talked. Had tea. Talked more.
... until it was time to go back to our quarters ... after profusely thanking our hosts!
How lovely that you all were able to celebrate the day starting with a worship service. Nice having a priest in the family!
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