Summer Wedding

Last Saturday I attended the wedding of some friends at New Barn Farm near Calbourne on the Island. Having faffed over frocks, had my hair cut and my nails pampered and painted sparkly dark blue (I'm very impressed with these!), I duly arrived. What a lovely venue! The guests gathered on a lawn that sloped down to a rose bower and was divided from the drive by well clipped yew bushes, and were kept shady by an enormous, and very welcome, holm oak tree. The wedding itself took place inside an old barn, with ancient wooden beams in the roof. The barn had been nicely plastered inside, and the walls decorated with swags of ivy. A large, beautiful flower arrangement was in an alcove at the front, and chairs were laid out in rows.

The bride arrived, looking gorgeous of course, and the groom beamed happily. The ceremony itself was simple and relaxed, with vows and readings. There was also a handfasting ceremony where the happy couple held hands so that their wrists were touching, and their children tied ribbons round them. Lovely.

After the ceremony there were drinks and canapés on the lawn while photos were taken, and then we came in for a delicious wedding breakfast. We had salmon mousse and rustic rolls, followed by chicken breast with a vegetable ragout, accompanied by new potatoes, carrots and green beans, followed by lemon tart with double cream. Yum! Lots of wine too for those that drank. The meal was followed by speeches and gift giving, and then we had some free time.

During the free time the bar opened in the back room of the barn, and we could play croquet on the lawn if we wished. Later on there was a fencing demonstration (the groom is a fencing instructor) which was great fun to watch.

In the evening was cake cutting, a disco and a hog roast (scrumptious). All in all a lovely day, with one of the happiest couples I know. Official photography was by the very capable Holly Cade; my snaps are below.

Summer Strolls

We go for a few short strolls around the place as the fancy takes us, so I thought I'd list them here.

Cowes Seafront

This is always a nice walk at this time of year; the town is bustling with sailors and tourists, there is usually yacht racing on the Solent, and many people are out on the seafront watching the sailing, playing on the beach or strolling along the promenade. We also have the pleasure of fairly regular visits from a common seal who likes to lounge on the old steps by the Royal Yacht Squadron.

Ryde Seafront

We like to stroll from the boating lake to Appley Tower, the café beyond or even Seaview if we're feeling energetic. Often we paddle in the sea as this is a sandy beach, and get an ice cream from one of the vendors along the way. One's route back is often marked by the smoke from multiple disposable barbecues, with the pleasurable scent of sizzling sausages Along the way.

Cowes to Newport Cycle Track

This is a lovely walk along the route of the old railway, with plenty of shade on sunny days, and lovely views across the river Medina, and the surrounding farmland. Lots of wildflowers and wildlife, as well as walkers, runners and cyclists.

Chilton Chine

A good walk for small children and dogs! Park near Isle of Wight Pearl on the west coast of the Island, follow the path to some steps that lead down to the beach and have a pleasant walk and paddle. Keep an eye on the tide as it comes in quite quickly and there aren't many exits back up the cliffs.