It is hard to believe that at the start of the year we were still wearing masks to protect us all from Covid-19 (Omicron variant), but we were. Here we are displaying the deluxe fabric masks donated to us all by Matthew and Laura for Christmas. 

Thankfully Joan and I have managed to keep clear of infection this year, although others in our family were not so fortunate.

We made it to Emily’s Ballet Show, The Tales of Beatrix Potter, by The Chelmsford Ballet Company. Emily was a mouse – a very charming one at that.

We enjoyed a holiday with Matt and Laura’s family in Kessingland on the Suffolk coast near Lowestoft. Three adjacent static caravans right next to the beach. Anna and Rowan loved being there. It was during that really hot week in July (40º remember), the fresh breeze off the sea kept us all cool (only 30º there) and sane while the rest of the country sweltered.

We may be rubbish at Football, but the future for Cricket looks brighter – especially with Alex coming up through the ranks. Now playing in the senior team, he regularly fools the opposition with his right handed spin bowling and left handed batting. Perhaps they’ll soon have to make space for him in the ranks at New Writtle Street (home of Essex CC and just down the road from his home). It’s his GCSE year so his activities may be more revision rather than cricket until they are over.

Next page Divine Coffee

Restore Homes for Refugees

Restore, the charity, is now in it’s 12th year of providing supported housing for single people experiencing homelessness. At any one time more than 40 people are being supported in 12 properties; this year 80% of those have moved on successfully. 

As the number of refugees coming to York increases we wondered if there was a way Restore could make some housing provision for them. There is. Thanks to generous donors, two properties are in the process of being bought for us to accommodate refugee families. This an amazing provision to help us move into a new phase. It would be amazing if Restore could start to help solve the housing crisis affecting many families; refugees and local people. 

Restore now has a branded coffee. Ten percent of sales are donated to the charity’s funds by the company, Divine Coffee Roasters. It’s available to buy online as well as through their retail outlet in York. It’s a rich blend in more ways than one.

Next Page Back to Madeira

Strange Coincidence

It was our first post pandemic return to Madeira. Imagine our surprise when on the first day we walked along the promenade in Funchal and literally bumped into Joan’s brother Phil and his wife Janice. Neither of of us had any idea the other couple were on the island. Without that chance meeting we could have all spent the week there totally unaware of the others until we returned home.

The weather was disappointing, but the company was good and we were able to show them around some of the sites we have become familiar with over the years. It was good to be back in Madeira but we found the travel from the UK and back a real chore. We may just stick to homeland holidays from now on. Nice knowing you Madeira, you’ve treated us well.

Next page Last Run

York 10k again, but never again

Mark and Barrie ran the York 10k again this year, raising funds for the housing charity Restore. Barrie had been suffering with painful knees for a few weeks but decided to make the run anyway. Alas, afterwards his knees became more painful and one further attempt to run a few weeks later proved futile. A visit to the doctor (Yes, he actually succeeded in having a face to face appointment) resulted in the diagnosis of osteoarthritis, and advice from a physio friend put an end to his regular running. So now it’s walks, cycling and investment in an exercise mat that keeps him fit. 

As a result of cutting back on running, his knees are improving dramatically. So there are many more miles in him yet but in a gentler style.

Back to first page

May you all have a Peaceful and Happy Christmas and a blessed New Year.

Again this year we are sending our Christmas news and greetings by email and internet.

What a year has just passed. In the wider world a new government was elected to Westminster whilst we are celebrating the one on whose shoulders the eternal government rests. So as we remember that Jesus Christ is the Wonderful Counsellor, and the Prince of Peace, may the 20th year of the new millennium give us the time, space and generosity to reflect His qualities to those in the world around us through acts of kindness and goodwill.

There follows a summary of some of the things we have been up to in the past year, anticipating more good things to come in the future.

God bless you all, Barrie and Joan

Click below for the news pages

Pilgrimage
Three Score Years + 10
The Next Generation
Damp work
Marathon Month
Tenby and Coniston
Office Clearout
Street Parties
Celebrations