We got to the Park early because a Surprise Party was to be held in the main Pavilion and around 50 people were expected - so lots of cars – and we didn't want them parking on 'our' place as we had some 20 people coming to play and had changed venue from Aston in order to accommodate everyone! The barman thought the party was starting at 12 but in the event they started at 1.00, but quite a few people turned up to get ready, so it was just as well we went early. Anyway, we had a lot to do before our bouligans arrived.
In the event we had 14 people to play as 7 didn't turn up. After the dreadful storms every had suffered over the past few days, we had a lovely day: the weather smiled on us, there was a very gentle breeze and no clouds, so we had sunshine too. The pistes left a bit to be desired – one was still covered in a very large iced puddle when we arrived, but as we were not playing on that one, that was no problem. Two of the others were fine – one edge was somewhat iced, but we just had to steer clear of rolling onto the icy bits, and the third one was OK to start with, but as it thawed it got a bit slushy! Our little cloths came into play here and our boules got a good polishing.
After 3 melee games we called it a day, totted up the scores and held a little prize giving:
Kevin got first place and a Red rosette, Yvette got second place and a blue rosette and Margie and Cynthia joint third. Ros H was the Friendliest Player and received the white rosette* – putting me in jeopardy – but I think at the moment I am still holding the spot! Some people had other engagements to attend but the rest of us tucked in to the eats and mulled wine. Margie and Cynthia returned their modest prizes to the Club's accumulating pot – thanks very much.
Our next outing will be on New Year's Day. So far 11 people are coming, but we may get more, so the venue is in the balance … See you all for some fun on Wednesday 1st January 2014. Meanwhile, Happy New Year! How time flies
... T
* these were all donated by a well-wisher from Wallingford - thanks to you too.