Christening

Because of lockdown things have been put on hold for many people. The christening of Thomas was one such thing in our family. To delay much longer however, might mean that the boy wouldn’t fit into the christening gown, so today was the day and Michael and Danielle managed to squeeze him into it, which was a relief all round.

We had a smashing service at church, even though it was all socially-distanced and we weren’t allowed to sing or even hum the hymns. Thomas was golden, as were the other two boys, William and Freddie, who sat as quiet as mice for most of the service.

They did make us laugh when the actual water pouring was about to happen, though. They watched, fascinated, as Uncle Andrew tipped the water from the jug to the bowl but a moment later, they had lost interest and were jumping up and down like two Tiggers on the rostrum at the front, entertaining everyone and making their hearts swell.

Church members were thrilled to see the family in church again and delighted to see the children, commenting on how much they had grown and exclaiming how like their parents they were. That’s a good job then.

Here we all are, after the service, laughing like drains because we were huddling up. And Thomas is minus his frock by now…….

We all went back to Michael and Danielle’s for a bite to eat and, although it wasn’t that warm, we all sat outside on the decking. Fortunately, I’d taken a couple of plug-in blankets that are very toasty, and so those of us susceptible to the cold snuggled up underneath them.

It was a marvellous afternoon with an intimate few celebrating the momentous occasion. We chatted easily together, ate and drank, and played. All good and very memorable. Michael and Danielle were excellent hosts as usual and we wanted for nothing.

Danielle’s family had to leave first, of course, as her parents were driving down to Poole to catch the ferry back to Jersey; Paul and Harriet stayed until late afternoon, and we stayed, stayed and stayed because we couldn’t drag ourselves away.

And that was our day. Perfect.

• 14,876 people tested positive for the virus today
• 11 people died in the community with it in the last 24 hours
• 227 people were admitted to hospital with it
• 234,441 people had their first dose of the vaccine
• 199,505 people had the second dose of the vaccine
• 84% of the population have had their first jabs
• Nearly 62% of the population have had both jabs now.

Take care everyone. God bless.