The first day of advent
As we traipse down a snowy driveway to the Big House, our thoughts are on a poignant funeral service for a friend. A cold church, puffs of steam coming from people's mouths and noses as they sing Amazing Grace , a floral tribute that says 'Mum', a tolling bell and memories of a feisty, fun and pint-sized woman loved by all who knew her. The church is packed with villagers, in big coats and warm hats. They stand in the pews: Caruso, Princess Peach, the Popes, the Parson's Daughter, Nobby Odd-Job, Mamma Mia, Mr and Mrs Sheepwash and Mrs Bancroft. There is Night Nurse beside the Loveliest Lady in the Village, there is Posh Totty and Mr F Word and Camilla and Mr and Mrs Putter. The church is so full that Tuppence and Ding Dong Daddy and his wife have to sit in the choir stalls, just steps away from our departed friend. She leaves the church to a soundtrack of sobs, sad faces and Leonard Cohen singing Hallelujah. It is the first day of advent, a time when our thoughts are us...