Yesterday we went across to East Sussex for the father-in-law’s 60th birthday party.

It did involve a lot of driving for me, which makes a change. I tend to drive very rarely and that is just the odd local trip. First of all I had to get across there in the first place and later on I went into Hastings to pick up Jayne’s oldest daughter from there. After the party I returned her to Hastings and then had to make the trip all the way home.

I quite dislike driving, and really dislike driving at night, but I didn’t mind so much this weekend as it got me out of clearing up after the party which I dislike even more. It also gave me a really good excuse for not drinking. I like the odd beer, but often just don’t feel like drinking, even when there is intense social pressure to drink alcohol. The truth is I would prefer a cup of tea nine times out of ten. At least at this function I had access to the kitchen and could make myself some tea.

It was after 2am by the time we got home. I had to get up today to get a present for Chas’s birthday tomorrow, but really spent most of the day snoozing.

Hurst Green is very rural though, and has no street lights at all so you can actually see the stars. It was a bit quiet for me, but has its attractions. The village hall was particularly impressive.

I could only look at its facilities in envy as I compared them to what we have in Broadfield. Its not got as much space as our community centre but it is very well laid out, well decorated and well looked after. The main hall is the original old building, which has been nicely renovated and has a large space with a raised stage and pros arch. Behind this is a new extension featuring a small hall, bar, office, kitchen, toilets and large hallway which has a light and airy atmosphere thanks to a large skylight.

The handrail outside, as seen in the photo, is a nice little detail.

The party went well, but I’m glad its all over. Jayne did all the food and the preparation for this has really had her running around all week, making up Gambian spring rolls from scratch, lamb ribs, and a couple of cauldrons of curry on top of the more traditional party foods – no sandwiches though!

It was good to see all the kids together though. Our three do not see their sister much, but seem to get on well when they do. I think its good for Chrystal to have some female company for a change.