I am just writing to say a very big thank you for the wonderful retirement "parties" that you all organised for me from the Wednesday Welcome celebrations to the lovely afternoon tea that took place on the 20th July and of course my final service on Sunday 28th July. It was all very much appreciated.
Thank you all for the money that you gave me and thank you to the Wednesday Welcome for the air fryer - I have used it! Also, thanks to Christ Church for the theatre vouchers, the play yet to be decided! And to Wilton Road for the clock; also to Bishop Latimer for the matching mugs and money to a theatre show. It was all very generous.
Please accept my apologies, I should have written sooner, but I have only recently finished sorting the manse, organising storage/removal of various items, not to mention a very full skip! At the same time, I’ve been settling in and organising my new flat here in Derby which is very contemporary and modern. A huge thank you to Elaine who has been a brilliant organiser, which is really appreciated.
The flat is in the centre of Derby, minutes away from a night club, which can be a little noisy at weekends, but it is bearable… I just close the windows if it gets too loud!
I chose to be in the centre of Derby, which I am enjoying. I enjoy being so near to the shops and pubs! (incidentally, I have found a very good pub called the Exeter arms that does a lovely Sunday lunch!).
Whilst writing this letter, I have realised that I have now been here a month and I have been reflecting on what has happened apart from moving to a new flat and getting used to a new way of living, i.e. retirement!
I have joined University of the Third Age (Derby branch) and I now play table tennis once a week. Also, I am about to do a beginners course in cookery. As well as this I have joined the Derby A cappella choir which I think I am doing ok at … only been twice!! I am also doing ‘A’ level English Literature (distance learning) which I am really enjoying.
As for my church life, I have started going to Derby Central URC which happens to be 5 minutes away from my flat. They are a small but friendly group of people; the church is in vacancy at the moment. I enjoy being an "ordinary" member of the congregation and enjoy Sunday worship without the burden of any responsibility!
I have been invited to a retirement ministers’ lunch here in the East Midlands which I will go to. Also, the East Midlands moderator has arranged to have a chat with me to welcome me into his fold! But if he tries to give me a job, I shall decline! I am enjoying retirement, and although it is early days yet, I think it suits me!
Finally, this weekend, Elaine and myself are at the Albert Hall to hear the Messiah, which Elaine has sung in (not in the Albert Hall)…It is a prom concert. A retirement present to myself!
Hope all is well at the Churches as you all begin a new chapter with your new ministers!
