Now to the real news. Margaret and I were treated, last Monday, to the sight of our younger son, Christopher, marrying Becks. There were few dry eyes in the room as we watched first the four bridesmaids and then Becks and her brother James (who gave her away) walking slowly down the aisle. The ceremony was brief but very beautiful and afterwards, once the obligatory photos were completed, we sat down to an intimate meal with entertaining speeches and excellent food.
As can be recognised from Chris' clothing, the wedding was held in Scotland. Chris, our elder son Nick, and James all wore kilts adding much to this very special occasion. Margaret wore a stole in her family tartan. I confess that I only managed a tartan tie !
Travelling up to Scotland, we took the opportunity to visit two of my cousins, one who lives near Dumfries and the other in Edinburgh. We stayed in Leith and took the opportunity to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia. Again, an amazing experience often feeling as though we were invading the privacy of the Royal family.
In the afternoon we took a trip on the river Forth where a new road bridge is being constructed.
Journeying south to Ilkley in Yorkshire we met up with another two of my cousins for an enjoyable evening meal. Finally, what had now developed into something of a tour, we called to see the National Memorial Arboretum before driving on to the Imperial War Museum at Duxford.
Here we saw many exhibits but perhaps the most exceptional was the SR-71 Blackbird.
Margaret and I first met at Farnborough air show in 1974. This was the first time this aircraft type had been displayed in the UK. Accordingly, the SR-71 is somewhat significant to us.
In summary a wonderful wedding followed by an eventful tour back home.
Having somewhere to go is home,
having someone to love is family,
having both is a blessing.
Unknown author
Keep well, and remember YOLO
Stephen
