Text contributed by Paul and Christina; pics by Paul.
After a week of very unsettled weather and a thorough soaking overnight on Friday, the signs seemed ominous for a dry day on Saturday. However, we awoke to clouds parting and the sun trying to break through. By the early afternoon it had warmed up to a very pleasant temperature and the outlook was looking good. This tempted over 25 people out to enjoy a relaxing time in the garden; socialising with their fellow IOG’ers in between the many offerings of cakes and the playing of numerous games (including croquet, jenga and rummikub). [Paul D.]
Over the past few years Clare’s and Paul’s summer party has become an annual event not to be missed and this year’s guests enjoyed a mainly blue sky and warm sunshine all afternoon in their hosts’ lovely garden and spacious patio. Here, two groups were seated comfortably underneath parasols, chatting, sipping cups of tea and coffee and indulging in scrumptious cake. Stela, Ian, Tess and some other guests played board games.
Upon my arrival at around 4 p.m., the garden party was in full swing. Further down the lawn a group played croquet. A large wooden jenga tower was sure to attract players willing to give it a go. As is often the case with parties, the kitchen area proved a magnet and social hot spot. Here, the guests chose their favorite cakes from an enormous cake buffet and chatted to the hostess who nipped in and out and prepared cups of tea, making sure we did not lack in anything.
A truly relaxing and magical summer afternoon – a big thank you to Clare and Paul for having us 🙂 [Christina B.]
