We continue to wait

Here in the UK we had our general election last Thursday. As this was the first ever election where the leaders have been televised in public debate, it was quite exciting for us, even though we learned nothing new after the first debate. All the leaders promised us swingeing cuts because our national deficit is so high following the banks’ fiasco, but none of them told us where the cuts would fall or what they would be. Accordingly, the nation voted for a hung parliament – a coalition of more than one party.

The trouble is, they can’t agree on which parties or how it can happen. Our politicians are so steeped in party politics that they seem unable to work together for the good of the country. So we’re still waiting to see who will govern us. What fun it all is, if you don’t weaken.

Our weather has turned bitterly cold, wet and miserable, with snow forecast for Scotland. Thankfully Ed and I are well south of Scotland, so should escape.

I’ve picked up an infection and can’t stop coughing, in common with many folks around here. Hope it clears up and Ed doesn’t catch it, as we’re off next week for a week at Rutland Water, a beautiful spot around a hundred miles or so from here.

Today we had a visit by a friend from the old parish, so caught up on the gossip, always enjoyable! The new priest is in place at last, after a nine month interregnum, so hopefully the parishes will now go from strength to strength. Meanwhile, I’m doing a bit round here. I preached yesterday at the two churches in this benefice and we’re beginning to make new friends.

Tomorrow is a trip to the accountant, an annual chore I hate. Priests are considered to be self-employed, even though salary is paid by the Church Commissioners, so we have to send in our own tax returns each year, and it’s inevitably complicated. Hopefully, now I’ve retired it will be the last such visit we have to make. That will be enough to out a big smile on my face!