My girl loves the winter!

K seems to thrive whatever season it is, in the summer she goes brown at the slightest hint of sun, her hair goes all highlighted and she just looks so healthy and happy.

This morning as she was getting ready for school, I offered her a lift as it was snowing and she didn't want it. She wrapped herself up in her gloves scarf and hat, stuck her walking boots on and off she went. I stood at the window to wave her goodbye as I do most mornings and she looked back at me with a pink nose and bright eyes looking fabulous!

We are finally having a night in tonight. With her rehearsing for Bugsy Malone, Guides, Dentist appointments and meetings about the parish profile for the new vicar, we have not stopped this week. My meeting ran on last night but luckily G bought K home so she was in bed on time. It was very interesting though, seeing what the different parishes need and want from their new priest. I personally would like someone who can take our small village church forward, we have a strong family feel and if we can build on that it will be brilliant. I can't see them wanting someone too progressive though, I don't think our little rural middle England parishes are quite ready for 'happy clappy' services. Some people find it difficult when we share the peace!

I think some people who do not go to church very often feel a bit uncomfortable with how inclusive and friendly it is now. Fellowship and friendship is just as important as the act of worship and for those who are 'hatch, match and dispatch' church goers I suppose it can be a bit overwhelming. I have seen this happening gradually since I was a child and I think it is great, little things like being offered a cup of coffee after the service can make a world of difference to someone who is unsure of themselves. I know it did to me! I was offered coffee when I first attended the small church I go to now, within 6 weeks I was on the coffee rota and within 6 months I was treasurer and now I am helping to write the Parish Profile to recruit a new vicar. I have never felt more at home at a church than I do at All Saints, so go on, if you are curious give it a try a warm welcome will no doubt await you.