Much to our surprise, SeamStress is still going strong in spite of our expectation that Pen would be looking for new employment this year. With her former business partner, Sally, having left the business last year, the intention had been to wind down once the stock of fabric had been consumed. However, there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth in response to the “Closing Down Sale” advertisement and sales sky-rocketed. We’ll have to advertise a closing down sale every couple of months if the response is as good as this.

Greg’s pretence of work, Stragnell ICT Consultancies, is even more of a surprise. People seem to think he knows what he is talking about and schools keep hiring him! What’s that expression – you can fool some of the people some of the time . . . ?

Greg’s folks were on fine form at the Stragapalooza reunion and continue to enjoy the Finishing School at Kendal in Hanover. We hope the recent fall and broken clavicle won’t slow Dad down too much.

Pen’s folks, Beryl and Oz, are similarly doing well trying desperately to keep warm during the current frigid conditions now that they have elected not to travel to Australia for the winters. Beryl has taken up oil painting and is proving to be moderately talented – you can even recognise what it is she’s painting most of the time.

Molly is still as loveable and endearing as ever. Although she is now in her 70s she has slowed down only slightly. In previous years the mere rustling of paper or the surreptitious opening of the bread bin would find her at your feet in a heartbeat. Now, she generally waits until the toaster has actually popped before arriving to beg for a breakfast snack.

And so another year goes into the history books. We’re looking forward to Greg’s 60th birthday in the next couple of days and to more fun and adventures in 2011. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the company of all of you who have risked a visit and would be delighted to hear that more of you will be heading our way. A phone call or e-mail confirms your reservation and, more importantly, ensures that we have time to get out of town.

All our love to you all,

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