tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34031473566086968742011-10-12T21:46:15.565+01:00(Street in Somerset, that is) <br> This is now my personal blog, for sharing what is important to me as I deal with cancer. <br> <b>For all that has been, thanks; for all that will be, yes.</b>Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.comBlogger2601100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-5601296083288275472009-09-13T00:05:00.003+01:002009-09-13T01:45:11.712+01:00

Sermon at the funeral of The Revd David Parsons, given by his brother RobertHoly Trinity Church, Street on Wednesday 22nd April 2009The Bible Reading was 2 Corinthians 4My theme is two men, David and Jesus. I will speak more about David, but the two are inseparable because he was a man, as the New Testament puts it, in Christ. He was united with him in baptism and by faith, so his story is part

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-1478499174472384262009-04-17T00:07:00.009+01:002009-04-26T12:48:15.121+01:00

Friends,The beloved author of this blog, David Parsons, died on Tuesday.Realistic as he was from the moment he received his diagnosis, Dad warned us ten days earlier not to expect much more. He was already very weak then, and there was concern he would not make it far beyond that weekend. And yet, as you will have read, Dad rallied during Holy Week, buoyed by the company of family and friends,

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-91327281553123820002009-04-11T21:04:00.002+01:002009-04-11T21:16:21.275+01:00

Norman Parker has sent me this photo of him, Malcolm Drummond and me - all three Old Monktonians - while we were at Cambridge. It was taken on the day when our director of music at Monkton, Alexander Hay Youngman, known as 'Penguin', visited Cambridge and invited us to tea at the Royal Cambridge Hotel.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-90216878259633060972009-04-11T11:28:00.003+01:002009-04-11T22:32:44.182+01:00

On our return from the rehearsal of the Dream of Gerontius two weeks ago, Charlie and Trevor helped me make this video, as an offering for my teaching colleagues. My idea is that a device as simple as a glove puppet can help a teacher add a little drama into the classroom, and at the same circumvent some of the strictures placed on teachers in today's rather cautious world.Tempora mutantur, nos

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-58112088071401673342009-04-10T17:43:00.003+01:002009-04-10T18:09:05.394+01:00

What should the blog contain today but the story of Jesus? Jesus was placed before the governor, who questioned him: "Are you the 'King of the Jews'?" Jesus said, "If you say so."But when the accusations rained down hot and heavy from the high priests and religious leaders, he said nothing. Pilate asked him, "Do you hear that long list of accusations? Aren't you going to say something?" Jesus

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-11646300518048598382009-04-10T00:41:00.002+01:002009-04-10T00:49:11.870+01:00

Rowena, David, Barbara and Trevor David with Alan Ripley, who looks after retired clergy locally. Alan told us about his interest in spinning and weaving, which he learnt from a Benedictine monk. The Reynolds family are staying all week, and were enjoying themselves, and the company of cousin Nicolette, despite today's damp weather. Rowena and David at their keyboards. Jenny and Peter from

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-83908502249869912652009-04-09T14:11:00.004+01:002009-04-10T00:37:43.670+01:00

The image is a montage we have made of the images from two cards which arrived today. By chance, both are by the same artist, Alan Kiernan. The card on the right is from Margaret Drury, one of my friends who lives in York, a member of ARLT. The card on the left is from Cass and Harry, my daughter Barbara's in-laws. (I wish there was a more direct English term for this relationship, which is

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-32941247706498252082009-04-08T19:14:00.003+01:002009-04-08T19:29:23.671+01:00

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-55710692671706433972009-04-07T21:07:00.001+01:002009-04-10T18:31:31.537+01:00

The preceding post is the text written by Peter Abelard for his beloved Heloise and her nuns.I did a podcast of me reading the Latin and of the translation by Helen Waddell, if you'd like to hear it spoken.The background story is that Peter was a brilliant theologian, teaching in Paris University in the 11th Century. He was hired by Heloise's uncle Fulbert to teach her, and the two fell in love.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-39161156411137934342009-04-07T20:45:00.002+01:002009-04-10T18:20:54.046+01:00

Solus ad victimam procedis, Domine,morti te offerens quam venis tollere:quid nos miserrimi possumus dicerequi quae commisimus scimus te luere?Alone the Victim-Lord goes forth to slaughter,Stooping to Death, beneath whom Death must die;And we, the fat offenders, how can we answerThe charge of sin Thou bearest slow away.Nostra sunt, Domine, nostra sunt crimina:quid tua criminum facis supplicia?

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-37146292374810787842009-04-05T23:21:00.002+01:002009-04-06T01:51:55.653+01:00

Click on the top pic for a postage stamp view.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-8175434154635081742009-04-05T22:57:00.000+01:002009-04-05T22:58:41.284+01:00

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-28418821531845275542009-04-05T20:51:00.002+01:002009-04-05T22:15:02.096+01:00

There's been a gap after my visit to my old school. I took yesterday off, as it were. I stayed in bed all day, and slept a lot. Michael Kidd came to visit, but apart from that the day was uneventful.At the same time I increased my morphine dose, which meant I was more sleepy - and shall be until the brain gets used to it, as my doctor tells me.This morning (Sunday) was Sunrise! the half hour

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-32777977653856192152009-04-05T20:44:00.001+01:002009-04-05T20:44:46.944+01:00

"One ship drives east and another drives west, With the selfsame winds that blow.'Tis the set of the sails, and not the gales Which tells us the way to go."Like the winds of the sea are the ways of fate, As we voyage along through life:'Tis the set of the soul which decides its goal, And not the calm or the strife."-- Ella Wheeler Wilcox (Poet, 1850-1919)

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-66750317587913739192009-04-04T19:30:00.004+01:002009-04-04T19:59:06.747+01:00

In the nature of things, a blog about approaching death is going to have a limited duration.We are getting near the point when posts will become less frequent.It might be a good thing to click on the orange logo to the top left of this page and get news of new posts as I am able to make them.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-31319427277814834232009-04-04T14:29:00.001+01:002009-04-04T14:31:42.416+01:00

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-1193243686643985302009-04-04T00:23:00.000+01:002009-04-04T00:24:03.845+01:00

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-77966639164735148762009-04-04T00:11:00.001+01:002009-04-04T00:32:59.101+01:00

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-62051500828886619722009-04-03T20:03:00.003+01:002009-04-03T21:37:14.035+01:00

Among my visitors today was one from a nursing service, very interesting. Adrian and Sarah McConnaughie came to lunch and Dolly MacDougall dropped in with Beatrice. So it was a jolly party.My brother Robert is spending tonight at Monkton Combe, the school we both went to, at a conference on Monkton's Christian heritage. It turned out that Charlie had never been to see the school, and that Dorothy

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-8509188984507638032009-04-03T10:15:00.002+01:002009-04-03T10:25:42.130+01:00

Not many days ago I was excited at the cherry plum blossom. That didn't last long, and now it's plum blossom. We have a couple of plum trees and a greengage whose fruit is quite delicious.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-53700346022988175742009-04-02T18:36:00.004+01:002009-04-03T10:30:57.908+01:00

Well! My impression of the day is that it began with lots of people busy with all sorts of things including music; then there was a time with Dorothy and Robert; then sleep; and now a gentle move into the evening routine.From around 10.30 people began to arrive: David and Dorothy from Alderminster; John Smart from Exeter where he is working at present; Helen Lunt from nearby; Michael Kidd from

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-51816769229230818762009-04-02T18:28:00.002+01:002009-04-02T18:35:12.870+01:00

I wrote this piece during the past week, mainly to set myself a challenge. I can still play a bit with my left hand, and dear Helen Lunt came and played it with me this morning.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-66915190031637797512009-04-01T22:52:00.002+01:002009-04-01T23:00:55.538+01:00

Romance for cello and piano left hand.This is a midi. 5 minutes. The piece is not yet as I want it. Too long, and wanders between keys. Work in progress.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-68445912338466531282009-04-01T22:32:00.001+01:002009-04-01T22:32:47.275+01:00

Trevor left at 1 pm for his Templecombe train. He was to chair a meeting in London.I went out in wheelchair with Chacquie in sunshine this afternoon. The sun went in as we came to the door on our return.I have been feeling very tired since then, but enjoyed the cordon bleu supper that Charlie rustled up.I added some more to a piece for left hand and cello which I hope I shall still be able to

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-63378192257399843362009-04-01T09:41:00.001+01:002009-04-01T09:41:52.309+01:00

Hints make me realise I am getting bad-tempered, and I am very sorry about that. Apparently steroids don't help - they make you behave in uncharacteristic ways - but that is really no excuse.The trouble is that the people I am hurting are the people who are working hardest for me, and are most concerned for my comfort. So, sorry chaps. Fresh start, I hope.And the backing of the God who is 'a safe

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-31197706244618008692009-03-31T20:01:00.003+01:002009-03-31T20:05:44.503+01:00

I think it's about time we had some more encouragement from John Bunyan - or rather, from the Bible via John Bunyan. Pilgrim's Progress is steeped in Scripture.Now you must note that the city stood upon a mighty hill,but the Pilgrims went up that hill with ease, because they hadthese two men to lead them up by the arms; also, they had left theirmortal garments behind them in the river, for though

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-62074582056856765882009-03-31T13:31:00.003+01:002009-03-31T19:54:35.264+01:00

Brendan has done so much for local music making, and I have had many hours playing the piano for rehearsals for operas and operettas, and singing in Gilbert and Sullivan and in Bethlehem by Rutland Boughton. It was good to talk at greater length than we have had time to before.He was kind enough to receive a copy of Gleam Flying Onward, my history of Bruton School for Girls.We also talked about

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-56800706318796162232009-03-30T22:34:00.003+01:002009-03-30T22:48:16.687+01:00

Saturday's rehearsal of the Dream of Gerontius in Wells Cathedral as I saw and heard it from my vantage point on a garden recliner. Dorothy reminds me that she and I sang in the same CUMS performance in Cambridge in around 1960.Sorry that I put 'Hail' instead of 'Praise' on the video at one point.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-10834125095550336052009-03-30T22:21:00.002+01:002009-03-30T22:30:36.226+01:00

Well, not quite the dustcart, but today my outing was a little nearer home, to Graham to get my hair cut. Trevor took me down in the wheel-chair, and afterwards around a few shops. We found two Doctor Seuss floor puzzles for small grandchildren. I must say I feel a lot more presentable with tidy hair. Michael and Helen both called, which was good. Helen sang me her new song, a charming Italian

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-24825830880559349932009-03-30T02:14:00.004+01:002009-03-30T22:21:50.612+01:00

After evensong yesterday there were refreshments in the south transept, and the McConnaughie family kindly posed for this photo.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-81443001230978026612009-03-29T23:19:00.002+01:002009-03-29T23:24:23.626+01:00

Romans 5 was shared between last week and this week at Evensong. This week we got the hardest part - but a vital part of the Gospel. The best I can do is offer you The Message version:Here it is in a nutshell: Just as one person did it wrong and got us in all this trouble with sin and death, another person did it right and got us out of it. But more than just getting us out of trouble, he got us

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-54152675986703140752009-03-29T22:49:00.006+01:002009-03-30T04:21:41.312+01:00

Today was the day for Caolan McConnaughie to be fully admitted into the Bath Abbey choir, when he received his surplice at Evensong. The family had kindly invited me to be there, and when I arrived in the wheel-chair I was expected and welcomed warmly. Caolan's grandparents were there, and Adrian was taking Evensong. The young man himself seemed to be fitting it all in between rehearsals for

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-47206155288544825692009-03-29T22:41:00.002+01:002009-03-29T22:45:47.488+01:00

Bach wrote this for unaccompanied violin, as he wrote the Chaconne that I posted a day or two ago. He also arranged it for organ. I tried playing the original violin part on the piano with my left hand, and this is the result. The playing is poor, I know, but it is a challenge to continue to make music.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-49346321543208467222009-03-28T19:54:00.004Z2009-03-28T22:23:04.941Z

Making today special: Trevor and Charlie took me to Wells Cathedral this afternoon to listen to the final rehearsal for this evening's performance of The Dream of Gerontius by the Oratorio Society.It was a good experience.We used the disabled parking badge for the first time, and parked near the Sadler Street gate to the Close. Then a clear run in wheel-chair to the cathedral, to find them

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-52551056590869591332009-03-28T09:24:00.003Z2009-03-28T09:32:02.619Z

GERONTIUS:NOVISSIMA hora est; and I fain would sleep,The pain has wearied me.... Into Thy handsO Lord, into Thy hands ....THE PRIEST:PROFICISCERE, anima Christiana, de hoc mundo!Go forth upon thy journey, Christian soul!Go from this world! Go, in the name of GodThe omnipotent Father, who created thee!Go, in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord,Son of the living God, who bled for thee!Go, in the

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-65556297536362020702009-03-28T07:53:00.008Z2009-03-28T09:18:48.069Z

When I opened the curtain at 6.50 the sky was blue and almost cloudless, although the forecast for Glastonbury on computer had darkish cloud. Now, well, it could go either way. My plan this afternoon is to attend the final rehearsal of The Dream of Gerontius by Elgar in Wells Cathedral. The concert is too late, starting at 7 pm, but we'll catch a lot of superb music in the afternoon, from the

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-4465694163263173582009-03-27T21:51:00.005Z2009-03-27T21:57:44.704Z

Here is John Smart introducing and playing unaccompanied BachAnd here John and I play a Schubert sonatina in D major.The concert was given in Street Parish Church three or four years ago.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-62804280448781062662009-03-27T17:56:00.002Z2009-03-27T18:04:33.075Z

Children, don't do this at home!My Uncle Charlie loved anything mechanical, particularly his cars. I had never seen this picture until we scanned the negative the other day. It comes from the days when cars had 'running boards' where you could step as you got in and out, and on which you could ride if you were daring. But Uncle Charlie seems to be driving the car from the running board. I can't

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-64391269383516073702009-03-27T17:39:00.001Z2009-03-27T17:39:50.677Z

Among the other advantages of having warning of one's death is being given the time to see that one's will and financial arrangements are in order.My adviser came round just before lunch and he explained the position to my sons and me. It seems that the trust I set up last year is going to be the right thing, and that I shan't be in danger of incurring inheritance tax - or rather my children

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-23564570621188001762009-03-27T17:16:00.001Z2009-03-27T17:16:35.360Z

John Gray is paying a welcome visit at the moment, so Trevor took this picture. John and I have shared in many enterprises over the years, such as Strode Opera productions - and the Street Parish Church choir.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-80734715839556591932009-03-26T18:06:00.001Z2009-03-26T18:06:14.041Z

As Barbara took me round Overleigh we spotted this jeu d'esprit by some pilot. Interesting.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-89732520355439164642009-03-26T15:27:00.002Z2009-03-26T15:37:21.797Z

This morning a nice lady arranged by Social Services came and was there while, unaided, I got into my bath. She then, apparently, broke the law by giving me a very gentle back wash. Everything else my son did for me.I've just had a phone call from Social Services telling me that I am not allowed to have a bath if Social Services are involved in it. Bed bath, yes. Proper bath, no.I chose my bath,

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-9553938776902809922009-03-26T15:14:00.002Z2009-03-26T15:21:32.402Z

Gary Sowerby called round yesterday and told me that he has agreed to be churchwarden for one more year. Good for you, Gary. He also brought his dry wit, which is always a tonic.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-29595182661465057392009-03-26T15:02:00.003Z2009-03-26T18:07:54.434Z

Giles' parents made the journey to Street for a very welcome visit yesterday. They met Robert and Elizabeth, which was lovely, and Rowena, whom they know already. We all went out to lunch in Ashcott.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-35565040235522261912009-03-26T09:52:00.004Z2009-03-26T10:06:32.629Z

have nothing to do with my case at the moment, but might be amusing. I mean, these photos that my grandfather took when he spent 10 years in Niederfischbach as a mining engineer.Edward's life is on line here. The most exciting bit is his brush with death in the form of armed robbers.Edward was very keen on photography. Here is a website of Wicklow pictures that I set up.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-59359818314760935982009-03-26T00:38:00.002Z2009-03-26T01:26:43.460Z

I wrote this simple setting for the choir of Holy Trinity, Street, to sing on Trinity Sunday 2008.THREE in One, and One in Three,Ruler of the earth and sea,Hear us while we lift to theeHoly chant and psalm.2 Light of lights! with morning shine,Lift on us thy light divine;And let charity benignBreathe on us her balm.3 Light of lights! when falls the even,Let it sink on sin forgiven;Fold us in the

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-44321759907236514872009-03-26T00:07:00.002Z2009-03-26T00:13:34.607Z

I wrote this tune to some mediaeval Latin words, and then wrote a Christmas carol to the tune.The refrain is in Latin: Omnes qui audiverant / pastores narrantes / Deum magnum laudabant / conglorificantes. All who had heard the shepherds telling their story were praising the great God, glorifying him together.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-38117672761604588672009-03-25T21:24:00.003Z2009-03-25T21:41:07.406Z

Today I had lots of lovely visitors, my daughter Rowena, my brother Robert and sister-in-law Elizabeth, my daughter's in-laws Cass and Harold. We all went out for lunch, with Charlie, to the Ring o' Bells in Ashcott, and had a jolly good meal.Later, Robert and I had a look at old photos, and we scanned several prints and several negatives, and identified what and whom we could. The picture I was

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-89536028229866145252009-03-24T21:35:00.002Z2009-03-24T22:01:24.587Z

Dear Barbara has been here today, and has gone to bed already, because she intends to wake at 4am and drive back to begin an ordinary day before Giles has to set off for work. Wow!Barbara took me for a great walk in the wheelchair around Overleigh, taking in White Nights and Longmeadow. If you don't know about these, see my video on Overleigh and the website on Laurence Housman.People have been

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-43608141345083080142009-03-24T17:06:00.001Z2009-03-24T17:09:07.101Z

The last section of Bach's magnificent Chaconne.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-80269266415010164362009-03-24T11:30:00.000Z2009-03-24T11:31:25.569Z

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-15444636766763939912009-03-24T05:57:00.006Z2009-03-24T06:38:38.412Z

Among very welcome visitors Trevor caught Norman Parker on camera, along with one of his pictures that I am lucky enough to have on my wall. An exchange for piano lessons, long ago.By the way, let me introduce a couple of Sue's paintings as well. The picture above my head, the green trees over a river, is near Hadrian's Wall. I walked the Wall from East to West, being dropped by Sue at each day's

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-36503138687514303882009-03-24T05:40:00.003Z2009-03-24T06:46:06.925Z

In paradisum deducant te angeli,in tuo adventususcipiant te martyres,et perducant tein civitatem sanctam Jerusalem.Chorus angelorum te suscipiat,et cum Lazaro quondam paupereaeternam habeas requiem.May angels lead you into Paradise,on your arrivalmay martyrs receive you,and lead you throughinto the City, holy Jerusalem.May the chorus of angels take you up,and with Lazarus, once poor,may you have

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-19741845600008098482009-03-24T05:26:00.001Z2009-03-24T05:26:49.524Z

I discovered this anglican clergyman's blog a couple of months ago. Before writing more about him, let me quote him on the death of Jade Goody:There will be no more night, no pain, no sorrow or shame: the suffering is over. At the tender age of 27, Jade Tweed, mother of two, married for just 27 days, has died and passed into the holy light of paradise to sing the song of peace and glory. She is

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-66255478537676590372009-03-23T22:28:00.001Z2009-03-23T22:30:37.500Z

Two people this morning came and measured our stairs, and there is no chance of a lift for 4 or 5 weeks. Alas!

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-61591823867540438582009-03-23T15:31:00.001Z2009-03-23T15:31:26.333Z

My right arm will no longer raise itself, so normal piano playing is out. Fortunately my left arm is OK, so I have got hold of a great piece of music that can be played with just the left hand. It is the Chaconne (a stately dance based on an ever-repeating sequence of chords) from Bach's D minor Partita for solo violin, arranged by Brahms as a study for left hand. IT is a long piece, so this is

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-83726606843695102282009-03-23T09:23:00.002Z2009-03-23T09:35:25.443Z

A breeze outside, sunshine on the bright yellow forsythia blossom. The cherry-plum blossom has almost covered the tree now.Chacquie came back last night, and a nice German lady came from Candlelight to see if I needed help getting to bed. With two strong sons, and Chacquie, we didn't need practical help, but had a nice chat about Lake Constance, where she was brought up, and Ireland, where she

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-8939683767997688902009-03-23T00:41:00.002Z2009-03-23T00:44:14.364Z

When I heard that John Smart was coming to visit, bringing his violin, I tried to think what we could play. The piano part needed to be very simple, so I wrote this tiny piece for John, and you can hear how attractive he has made it sound. Reminiscent of Grieg, he thinks.So this is to show my appreciation, John.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-82304943213982217642009-03-22T19:59:00.001Z2009-03-22T20:01:51.892Z

This was the second lesson at evensong this afternoon.Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-47012927733142040692009-03-22T19:25:00.004Z2009-03-23T09:22:11.579Z

Choral Evensong in a cathedral only eight miles away is an experience that I have neglected. Today my sons helped me put that right.It all went very well, Charlie drove us to Penniless Porch and Trevor wheeled me into the church and up to the choir, where a friendly attendant saw us to a spot just by the lectern with a good view of the pulpit.The setting of the canticles was new to me, and we

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-48908435882475912552009-03-22T11:38:00.004Z2009-03-22T11:56:33.327Z

Trevor brought me three CDs yesterday, all of Vivaldi, the Italian priest whom unkind critics accused of writing the same concerto 350 times over!No one who knows and loves the Four Seasons would agree, and here we have two discs of first recordings. Amazing. And all different, naturally.I'm listening to to one of them now, and planning to be taken to Choral Evensong in Wells Cathedral at 3 pm

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-49569633186779213962009-03-22T11:32:00.002Z2009-03-22T11:35:12.291Z

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-4249888680353615912009-03-22T10:55:00.003Z2009-03-22T11:27:13.707Z

While writing my life story I did wonder how the various schools and colleges I was at are doing now.A brochure came from Ridley Hall the other day. Because it was labelled From the Development Office I thought it could wait. A money appeal. But Trevor read it to me this morning and what the new Principal had to write about himself was cheering. He is not ashamed to talk about his evangelical

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-5684152691567526942009-03-22T09:33:00.002Z2009-03-22T09:46:29.663Z

I've been wondering why hardly anyone has made a comment on anything on this blog. It would be such a boost if I thought someone was taking notice. Then this morning came an email from Mary Corney. She said she tried to post it as a comment but it got lost. So I was able to post it as a comment and put her name to it.Mary wrote:I was trying to find a poem or a relevant quote in response to your

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-33589385994383231762009-03-22T00:09:00.004Z2009-03-22T20:04:21.957Z

Trevor arrived this afternoon glowing with his cycle ride from Templecombe. He and I watched the original James Stewart film, It's A Wonderful Life. I was sure I'd seen it, but I think I'd watched a remake. None of this was visually familiar. The message, that a person with friends is rich, is one I thoroughly endorse!PS I've looked up the film on Wikipedia, and there was no remake. So I hadn't

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-79265960297335963792009-03-21T12:12:00.005Z2009-03-21T14:48:56.654Z

Friends from Sunny Hill came this morning - as part of their busy globe-trotting lives! Letitia has just come back from New Zealand and the Gulf, and Catherine planning to visit family in the USA. Very good to hear their news and talk of old times.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-8589148192154819602009-03-21T07:47:00.003Z2009-03-21T07:59:18.235Z

Reading: Way back, it seems, I left an enthusiastic review of Caroline Lawrence's latest Roman Mysteries book unfinished. I thought I had quite a bit more to read - but I was almost at the end. Boo hoo!So I've found that the whole book ends with one big cliff-hanger. Do get it.Watching: Yesterday evening Charlie and I watched Schindler's List, which I had never seen. What a great film! Back in

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-91944822442519562762009-03-21T07:27:00.003Z2009-03-21T07:37:47.399Z

I don't know how helpful this will be, but I am posting an extract from Wikipedia about the 18th century French philosopher Blaise Pascal. To put the matter in a very simple way, imagine a bishop talking to an atheist. The bishop says to the atheist: "If you are right and death is nothingness, neither of us will know that you were right. If I'm right, and through death we pass to God's judgement

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-42420003329005995982009-03-21T07:06:00.001Z2009-03-21T07:15:04.503Z

Some come and see me; others stay in the background and set up equipment to make life easier. Yesterday Sue's daughter Dolly brought her ever-smiling toddler to make friends, and have a little lunch. Delightful. Michael Kidd overlapped with them and shared some of the smiles.Last night I found an electric tilting device under my mattress to raise my pillows. And there's a new, improved

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-20410982663239798612009-03-21T06:57:00.000Z2009-03-21T07:00:38.984Z

I have a version of this, sung by the quartet in Street Parish Church, but am posting this home version till I get the better one sorted.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-8873028961333808052009-03-20T17:24:00.000Z2009-03-20T17:34:39.821Z

Tony and Mary Joyce armed themselves with their bus passes and came to see me this morning - a very pleasant and welcome visit. Tony was Vicar of Christ Church, Downend, when I went there as a curate in 1998. As my boss he could be quite stern, but as a friend he is lovely! We talked about mutual friends, how the Church of England often manages to undermine good work in the parishes by top-down

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-30509096276737023512009-03-20T16:50:00.000Z2009-03-20T17:00:34.439Z

When I looked at the headlines in a church paper this morning, they depressed me so much that I was reminded of this Shakespeare sonnet, which says, in effect, that the world has so much wrong with it that the poet would rather die - but if he did, he would bring sadness and loneliness to the one he loved. I can empathise with him there. LXVI.Tired with all these, for restful death I cry,As, to

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-50380618441344422862009-03-20T16:39:00.002Z2009-03-25T03:06:56.138Z

A very simple setting of words by Rachael Hackney, a young poet in Downend, written for a flower festival with the theme of the promises of God. There was a wonderful Noah's Ark in the church, and a rainbow over the East Window. The main musical event was Britten's Noe's Fludde. This little piece was sung by the church choir at Sunday service.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-47415401698372118782009-03-20T07:20:00.001Z2009-03-25T03:12:32.705Z

So many pictures taken! Here are cousins getting on like a house on fire. Nicolette is wonderful with her cousins. We heard last night, by the way, that she did very well in her GCSE mocks, and when I rang she was playing Chopin on the piano. What a star!

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-1042273979469213752009-03-20T06:44:00.000Z2009-03-20T07:03:31.457Z

Sue's daughter Morag is a qualified and experienced doctor, married to another such, and living in a farmhouse and running a farm and bringing up a lovely family; but to me she is Moggy, who manages to do all this and still be a simple and loving friend who has been for many years like an extra daughter. So it was a great joy when she visited me last Saturday. A lot was going on at the same time

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-33465089098799531972009-03-20T06:34:00.000Z2009-03-20T06:36:03.313Z

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-28118209063256987292009-03-20T05:58:00.001Z2009-03-25T21:56:50.675Z

The other day Lynda Goss visited me and we had a good chat. Can't remember if I mentioned that, but I mentioned her among the ARLT friends that I met, or missed, in Cambridge.She took back into her safe keeping the albums which I borrowed and scanned for the ARLT website. It is a relief to hand back responsibility for these historic documents.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-32794924940057065112009-03-20T05:00:00.000Z2009-03-20T05:58:06.414Z

It was once again a beautiful day. I spent a pleasant time in the garden with Barbara just listening to the birds and wondering what tree it is in the next door garden but one which has what looks like giant catkins hanging down, but certainly not a willow tree.Then Helen Lunt came and sat with us for a while, before we went indoors for the next effort in the project to record on video as much of

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-19408535822292484082009-03-19T10:47:00.001Z2009-03-20T05:00:21.881Z

The Latin phrase came into my mind this morning as |I was in the bath listening to a piece of music by Sir Hubert Parry, one that I'd never heard before. It was beautiful, a memorial to Parry's hero Brahms. And I thought about how many lovely things have been composed, made, written, that most people have never come across.So to that Latin phrase. For many years I took it that it meant "There's

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-76562409830300631852009-03-19T08:12:00.000Z2009-03-20T07:26:38.079Z

Better late than never. My three lovely granddaughters enjoying chocolate cake in The Mad Hatter on Saturday.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-24163049083394570462009-03-19T00:09:00.001Z2009-03-19T00:09:48.585Z

Another lovely sunny day. My brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Liz, came all the way from Shrewsbury and returned this evening, and I greatly enjoyed their visit. We saw some of the Somerset Levels, before going to the Ninesquare woodland near Collard Hill, south of Street, and enjoying the views and the sunshine among the trees. Before we left the birds began their evening song, completing

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-15726962005538931702009-03-18T14:37:00.000Z2009-03-18T20:16:22.639Z

"This," said Reepicheep, "is where I go on alone."They did not try to stop him, for everything now felt as if it had been fated or had happened before. They helped him to lower his little coracle. Then he took off his sword ("I shall need it no more," he said) and flung it far away across the lilied sea. Where it fell it stood upright with the hilt above the surface. Then he bade them goodbye,

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-90914354869759658692009-03-18T12:42:00.000Z2009-03-18T18:49:22.691Z

For my brother Robert's 60th birthday and to celebrate 90 years in the life of one of his churches, Trevor and I joined him in a concert, This is some Bach that we played, the Trio Sonata from the Musical Offering.Listen.The mp3 file is about 47mb

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-12754881182196200482009-03-18T12:16:00.001Z2009-03-18T12:41:15.893Z

A streaming video version of the video linked in today's first posting.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-11566823287190381592009-03-18T07:48:00.000Z2009-03-18T07:52:34.193Z

One of Michael Kidd's light cabaret-type songs. The video is 2 mins 18 secs.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-17354694463105978012009-03-18T07:30:00.001Z2009-03-18T07:35:06.715Z

I sang this Michael Kidd song during a Walton Flower Festival on the theme of Somerset work and leisure. I think it's a fine song, and am glad that it was recorded. England is, in Somerset, as England must have been (47 mb download)The lyric is by Mabs Holland, who died perhaps 20 years ago and was a collector of Somerset legends as well as a poet.England is in Somerset as England must have

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-48398962142115124832009-03-18T00:34:00.001Z2009-03-18T00:34:52.974Z

Well, it seemed like a miracle to me. After spending the morning in bed, and enjoying visits from Michael, and from Bob Parker, fresh from the Caribbean, I was invited to a have a bath without the electric mechanism that gets me in and out (and incidentally makes it difficult to lie down and relax. When I began to get into the hot water I noticed not only my three new rubber ducks, but the bath

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-12184384316748506822009-03-17T10:41:00.001Z2009-03-18T08:32:25.055Z

Christopher Smart wrote Rejoice in the Lamb while confined to a lunatic asylum, I believe.Below is an extract, including a mouse "a creature Of great personal valour". I do wonder whether C.S. Lewis had Smart in mind when describing Reepicheep. I'm hoping to be able to quote a little bit about Reepicheep soon. I don't have a cat called Jeoffry, but next door's cat Stimpy comes in a lot, and is

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-73614238230662706292009-03-17T09:20:00.001Z2009-03-17T09:22:38.106Z

My Wynne Grandmother knew and liked this morning prayer. She copied it out onto a large sheet of paper and illustrated it with water-colour. Then she framed it, and, taking me with her, she took it to the Birds' Nest orphanage and presented it. I thought it was all lovely, but looking back now, I wonder what the children made of it. If you think of Lark Rise to Candleford, it is really a prayer

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-39876037036357892312009-03-16T22:05:00.000Z2009-03-16T22:09:18.067Z

Mozart Violin Sonata in E minor K.304 First movement Allegro.This is the full movement - our previous attempt left out the opening. Enjoy.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-27826175846739879082009-03-16T21:45:00.000Z2009-03-16T22:04:53.578Z

Well, today was a bit of a rest day after an exciting Sunday. Visitors included the hospice nurse, who filled in my attendance allowance form for me, and was generally helpful, the lady to test my panic button, the Rector, John Foreman to have a session on Figured Bass for his next organ exam, and Helen. And people came morning and evening to offer extra help for getting up and going to bed.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-11030059529144994842009-03-16T18:11:00.000Z2009-03-16T18:20:09.800Z

At school I loved our surroundings, and the first verse of this contribution to the school magazine is a conventional celebration of natural beauty at night. I was also at the time trying to understand Einstein - who writes very clearly. This little poem is the result.SubjectivityMists in the valley are silently drifting,Lit by the golden-ringed moon above.Clouds move on slowly, masking,

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-69316438001929275592009-03-16T10:14:00.000Z2009-03-16T10:32:11.870Z

My Wynne Grandmother was a big influence in my life. These lines, written I suppose as she looked forward to the end of her own long life - she died aged 92 - appear in my Father's little book, A Christian's Guide to Growing Old.It's a short book, easy to read.White hair growing thin,Bright eyes growing dim,Shoulders sagging,Footsteps lagging. A Pause—A Flash! Eyes crystal clear,Footsteps light

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-24772544920205849122009-03-16T09:56:00.000Z2009-03-16T10:29:45.701Z

The Bible is such a wonderful mix of poetry and hard-headed truth. Ecclesiastes chapter 12 is a prime example. I wanted to post this chapter in the Authorised (King James) Version, for its poetry and the way it describes old age through a series of clues; but the version I found first was this, from The Message. It soft-pedals the poetry, but makes very clear what it means. Read this one, and

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-36449940740111598392009-03-16T09:32:00.000Z2009-03-16T09:47:29.013Z

This is that same psalm, Psalm 90, as Eugene Petersen gives it in The Message.I was very excited when I first came across Petersen's version of the Bible. This Psalm comes across here as a complaint that God, who could be very nice to us if he chose, gives us a rough time. Well, all right; I have had a few rough times. I even began to take an overdose once, there in the kitchen of Woodbridge

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-58902989577892057202009-03-16T09:18:00.001Z2009-03-16T09:18:55.518Z

Yesterday was all about the beginnings of life. The grandchildren took centre stage, merry and bright.This morning we are expecting professionals to come and focus on looking after me. The care people are to come and we are to discuss how they may come to supplement the nursing and other care that Charlie and Chacquie are at present able to give me. I'm sure an extra pair of hands will be

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-56850651300026923002009-03-15T23:39:00.001Z2009-03-16T09:27:28.880Z

Many thanks to Michael for sending me these pics from this morning.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-38813176298949961522009-03-15T22:58:00.000Z2009-03-15T23:17:56.104Z

Thank you for asking - extremely well!For a start, God gave us the most beautiful weather. The Parish churchyard is bursting with daffs and generally new life is everywhere.We gathered around the font in an informal ring of chairs, and the whole baptism was informal and I hope full of meaning. In the parish church a two-part window is behind the font, the left hand stained glass showing John the

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-46688058030783538002009-03-15T16:11:00.000Z2009-03-15T16:12:04.435Z

With all my four children together, and Giles admiring the photos taken of them one day long ago by Barbara Luthy, I had the idea of asking for this picture.

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403147356608696874.post-14209137289848709942009-03-15T08:55:00.000Z2009-03-15T22:53:01.272Z

AE Housman was a fine classicist, a difficult man, an atheist, and the author of some memorable crystal clear and beautiful lyrics in A Shropshire Lad and some other volumes. This one breathes, not Christianity but Epicureanism. Not pleasure-loving, as is generally thought, but a balance between pain and pleasure, and based on the atomic theory of Democritus - hence Ere to the wind's twelve

Collard Hillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08482413981389977810noreply@blogger.com0