Photograph of Stella and Dot at Cringleford by the River Yare, during a tour of the city (by car). Stella stayed with us overnight and has just rung to say she got home safely. Very pleasant interlude: we had lunch at Prezzo’s. The previous two days were also fun, with David and the grandchildren joining us on Easter Sunday for a family meal at the Red Lion in Eaton. Also present: Phil, Joy, Joe, Birgit and Birgit’s brother Joe, his wife Ilona and Birgit’s mother. It was a long meal, so I took first Amy and then both children for a walk down to the river. Really enjoyed that. They’re lovely to be with.
Dot and I had just been to church, where I led the Easter Communion, with John Easton presiding. The next day David and I took Oliver to watch Norwich play Watford, and Norwich won well, 2-0. Meanwhile Amy went with Dot to Wroxham Barns and had a great time on various rides, showing lots of confidence.
I went to the doctor’s on Tuesday morning, because I’ve been feeling very tired, and all is not well in the usual area. All sorts of odd pains, queasy stomach, headaches. Just don’t feel I’m getting any better. Doctor not particularly confidence-inspiring. Water sent off for testing again, and a blood test fixed for ten days in the future. Some sort of urgency lacking, I feel. I wonder if falling over would get someone’s attention.
Anyway, the taps are now beautifully fixed and the chairs beautifully covered. The oven’s bust, though. Always something… Last Wednesday the Paston evening at the Grapevine went really well. Stephanie showed up unexpectedly, and we gave her a lift home. I read a couple of poems, Lucy and Annette spoke, and there was some medieval singing. Only two problems: no media interest, and very, very few sales. Still pretty confused about what Lucy wants me to do with the Paston Guidebook. She also asked me to do a poetry walk on May bank holiday weekend. It would give me £200, but I really don’t feel like it at the moment. Not sure how far I could walk, for one thing. Lisa may well do one.
On Maundy Thursday we had tea at Morston Hall by way of research for the Murrays’ visit in May. Very pleasant, but we were the only ones there, apart from a couple of flies. We also tracked down a yacht charter company at Morston and have booked three hours’ sailing. Lovely warm weather in North Norfolk. David texted to say it was pouring with rain at Twyford.
On Good Friday an excellent and very moving Ambient Wonder event at St Luke’s attracted about 50, including about ten children. I did the opening and closing liturgy, if it can be called that. Some short responses might be more accurate.
Have struck up a relationship with Ellie, who lives nearly opposite. She’s two. Very sweet.
