May 23, 2015

Chelmsford, UK

Today has been a gorgeous day.Not just because it's May, which is when I tend to think England looks best - leaves and blossom all glistening in the mid-Spring sunshine - but also because I got to relive my holiday in Australia and New Zealand this January, when I was there for Tim's wedding to Gemma in her hometown of Nelson, at the tip of New Zealand's South Island. As New Zealand was a bit too far for many of their British friends and family to travel, the couple decided to have a marriage blessing here today, in Tim's home town of Chelmsford, in the cathedral where he was a chorister and choral scholar growing up. And, unlike in New Zealand, all The King's Singers were able to be here today, and we had the great privilege of being able to sing the bride and groom down the aisle, which was a real joy, and it was the first time all the KS brood was in tow - including Baby Ariana, whom Chris was able to bring with him for the very first time. The day has been magical, and though it's not strictly necessary for him to have a third ceremony anywhere else, I hope we'll have another opportunity to see all of their wonderful friends and family together soon! I'm currently enjoying a two hour break from proceedings before the evening's fun in central Chelmsford commences, so I'll be sure to let you know that I've survived the ordeal of an Essex night out in next week's post.So, for now, I'm going to freshen up, put on my finest aftershave, iron my shirt and brush my teeth. I don't want to disappoint anyone by looking shabby. Off I go to shower then....