Wedding Weekend

Burger night on Friday was a very casual experience, just four of us as the Middle Smith had decided to take a weekend break in Yeovil. We had Naomi and Jack's wedding to attend in Sherborne on Saturday. The boys were groomsmen and as we were close friends of the Cooks. You all know my feelings about weddings so I will try and write this blog as impartial as I can.

Midday wedding on one of the hottest days of the year. I was not too worried as those old churches are normally built of stone and are cool. We left just after midday for the wedding at Sherborne. Google maps estimated one hour and eight minutes, and the guests were expected to arrive at one thirty. Passing through Piddlehinton, Piddletrenthide, both villages get their names from the river that flows through them, the River Piddle. Turning right onto Galeshill road taking us through Middlemarsh and on to Stockbridge Farm. All the beauty and history captured in the English countryside and most of these small villages are mentioned in the books by Thomas Hardy.

I must admit to a little disappointment when, on arriving, we were greeted by rows of chairs in the gloriously hot sun. Guests were crowded under what little shade there was, hydrating on all types of cheer. The reception was in an old barn but this was only going to be ready for use much later in the day.

The ceremony was lovely and once the vows were completed, we were free for about an hour and a half until the Breakfast tea and speeches would take place in the barn. You picked the breakfast part up as well, yep, the organisers scheduled that part of the proceeding to take place at 4 pm, now that is what I call a late breakfast. We had an enjoyable time having our afternoon tea, complete with cream scones, cupcakes, finger sandwiches, tea, coffee and a sparkling drink. All the while listening to those crazy speeches you always have weddings, some sincere, some embarrassing, but a prerequisite for all weddings. One speech was memorable in that it did have sincerity and I think a touch of regret.

All in all, I would say a good wedding and I do wish Naomi and Jack all the best in their future journey through life.

We left after the reception as my dodgy knee was not happy at standing all afternoon in the hot sun. I do know Susan would have stayed much later, the party had, in her eyes, only just started. I do believe the large gin and tonic boosted her already heightened mood. I have included a few photos of the wedding, my family and some strangers. who just needed to be included.