Perhaps ‘old stagers’ is a little strong, but to us ‘young’uns’ 50 years of marriage is quite an achievement. We all congregated in Bracknell on Sunday to celebrate their achievement. It was a beautiful sunny day, which made it all seem perfect. We all dined at Peacock Farm, and then it was back to 8Lem for the evening.

Tricia had made a cake for Mum & Dad, replicating Mum’s Brides missal, and also her bouquet. As always Tricia made a splendid job.

And we all congregated for some group photo’s in the garden.

All in all it was a great afternoon, and it was great for all the family to be together. Thanks to Mum and Dad for a splendid day. And thanks to Mark for the laugh of the day – he emptied Dads bottle of non alcoholic lager, and put water in it. Everyone it seems was in on the joke.. and was giggling when Dad took a swig and then gave his bottle a funny look as if to say, that didn’t taste quite right. Ellie couldn’t help herself and in the end told Dad the big secret

On Saturday I completed the Swimathon. It was all a bit anti climactic really. I had hoped to under 1:30, but there was some chaos over lane organisation, and I was in with swimmers who were slower than me. And so it all got a bit congested, and I only did 1:35. When I was able to swim at my normal speed I was doing 53 seconds for 50 metres, which would have been a 1:28 time. Still never mind, the objective was to do it, and raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care, and all told I shold raise about £1500. Next year I am determined to do under 1:25 though.

Last year my old mate Bard, one of the Mystic Wizards, was writing music for a new album and was looking for some lyrics. So, I wrote Charlbury Moon. Bard put it to music and recorded it. His album has just been put onto iTunes, where Charlbury Moon, sits at 79p, alongside all the great music of the last 50 years. My little (titchy) claim to fame. Chuffed with the song being on iTunes, I called Ceri, who was the daughter of the landlords of the White Hart in Charlbury, where the Mystic Wizards used to stay. She is well, and a mother now. I haven’t spoken to Ceri for around 10+ years. Her Mum and Dad recently celebrated their 50th as well. It was good to catch up, and I wish I had called before now.

Nikki is back at uni. She has this years final exams coming up, so she is starting to get twitchy about exams. Robbie has just got a job. The village pub has just been refurbished and re-opens on May 1st. Robbie had an interview today to work there, and was offered the job. Suits him, as the walk to work will only take a few minutes.

Well that’s a quick catch up. I had better get to bed… work tomorrow.