Mayhem at the Manor

Sorry I've been quiet for a few days. Touring around Engand and meeting old friends, none of whom had wifi and only strange old computers. I've also been dealing with English weather--absolute downpours for several days. Now I'm finally in Cornwall.

If you want to know where I get the inspiration for the Lady Georgie books--I can tell you. I'm at my sister-in-law's manor house where a big party is to be held this weekend. One son celebrates his 50th birthday, another his 40th. So the whole family is here. We were 16 at dinner last night. More arriving today. There is a big marquee on the lawn, decorated inside with trees, flowers, fairylights. 2 bands are coming.


It's the classic grand English party--exactly the sort of thing that Lady Georgie would attend. Pimms to drink, lots of people with funny names, definintely a crazy stunt or two. I'll take pictures and post them tomorrow.

And watch out for a story about a manor house and a party like this coming out in October....

Summer Sunday in the English countryside. Part 1

I'm celebrating a perfect English Sunday at Merthen Manor in Cornwall. Went to local church where relatives knew everybody and now anticipating a huge Sunday lunch--well over 20 people I believe. (yes, the table holds that many)The roast was almost too big for the Aga! Ah, this is what I miss in the US--the feeling of family togetherness and neighbors just dropping in and being welcomed and people and dogs wandering in an out just as it was in manor houses in the past. It is a great feeling of continuity and community that we sadly lack at home.
I'll post pictures as soon as I can find a moment of peace and quiet to get them downloaded.