Iden

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IN OUT, IN OUT AND SHAKE IT ALL ABOUT: Whether we voted in or out at the Referendum, it has undeniably been a soap opera. I was so glued to the TV, that I feared getting pressure sores. I felt as though if I turned my back on the TV for a few minutes, it would be like watching new neighbours move in, and just missing them unload an enviable three piece suite. Every citizen in the land, had suddenly become alive with opinion, and the politicians were bent over a political chess board not one of them seemingly able to reassure us that they are able to make the right move. We are used to them thinking for us, lulled into a feeling that between them they will, at the very least keep the country safe and on an even keel. Seeing our leaders falter, is the same kind of scenario as children watching their parents go to pieces. But all will no doubt be well. It will all come out in the wash [Please God].

SUCH PRESENT DAY SADNESS: The centenary of the battle of the Somme, brought sadness to so many in Germany France and Britain last week. It’s remembrance was in such sharp contrast to the general ill will and back –stabbing by politicians. Like Phoenix rising from the ashes, the centenary rose up and waved it’s banner of glory amongst a faltering Britain .We remembered those who went into battle, many of them ordinary men who had so little in the way of wealth and chattels. The resplendent coverage in Britain amongst the Brexit chaos was a reminder of the Britain that has hitherto been renowned for so much more dignity. The unimaginable fear of those young soldiers, and the grief of their loved ones is a reminder of what happens when nations rise up against each other, rather than seek compromise. The services were beautiful.The thought that went into this homage, a reminder of who we still are .

A SERVICE OF HOLY COMMUNION: There will be a service of Holy Communion, on Sunday, at 9.30 am, in Iden Parish Church.

THE POP-IN: Iden’s Pop-In has been going now for quite a few years. It is very informal, merely a cup of coffee/tea [with as many free fill-ups as you like], biscuits, bric-a brac,and books for sale, and unlimited gossip. At least the women gossip, but the men talk about cars and sport, according to my husband [surely there is only so much you can say about a Ford Escort], but it is nice for men to have a chance to have a get together as just men [they sit on their own table,] and it’s heartening to see them sitting there like the panel of ‘Mock The Week’. Anyway, the next Pop-In is on Monday 11th July, at 11 am, in Iden village hall. Everyone is welcome. Come and join us!

BINGO: And so to ‘Iden Bingo’. This is a fortnightly treat, and anyone from the Rye area is welcome to come along and ‘grab a game of Bingo’. It’s quite nice to have an afternoon session [and thereby not miss an hour of ‘Celebrity Master Chef’!] There is a flier, a Jackpot, a raffle, and a light tea at half time. The next Bingo session is on Thursday14th July. Doors open at 2pm.Eyes down at 2.30pm.

CAROL WOULD LOVE SOME DONATIONS: Carol Bourne is still collecting donations of books, bric-a brac, toys, house ware etc [anything except electrical goods], for Bargains Galore at Iden Fete, [which is soon, on Saturday 30th July] Please ring Carol Bourne [telephone 01797-280-464], and she will advise where to leave your donations.

DON’T VISIT THE MOTHER IN LAW: Put off all weekend visits, trips to Blue Water, pampering sessions, National Trust, nail bars and Madame Tussaud’s. Come instead to Iden Fete on Saturday 30th July and be amazed. It will be lovely as usual. It is after all an extravaganza. A lazy, hazy .crazy day of summer, where we can forget about Brexit, and sink our teeth into one of Dave Studely’s monumental burgers. There is music, side shows, children’s rides dog shows, face painting, The WI cake stall, the cocoanut shy, maggot racing [oh yes!] , the boot fair, teas and cream teas in the pavilion, Carol’s Bargain’s Galore, etc. etc. People look so happy and relaxed they are practically horizontal. I go for breakfast, because I love the atmosphere, the setting up, the buzz of excitement. I can munch on one of Dave’s sausages in a roll, and watch it all unfold Keep the day free, there is something for everyone!