Ducks Patch

Conference Weekend We had a special visitor to conference. Elder D Todd Christofferson It was held at the Twickenham Stadium Rooms. About 900 turned out for the meeting, and it was an enjoyable weekend listening to the quest speakers. Jennifer got to say the Opening Prayer on the Sunday morning And we got to shake hands and chat to with Elder Christofferson as well. But of course, I was at Twickenham Stadium, Home of English Rugby. It had many tourist there as well. But the stadium was smaller then expected. it only hold about 40,000 that makes it smaller them the three in Melbourne.

On the Saturday the Sun was shining Again and we decided to head to Ham House This is a 17th Century House. king James era. After what was long bus trip, we finally arrived. The house entrance is through a long line of trees. The House is a Brick master piece. At the entrance is group of Busts. Each still very much intact. Jennifer enjoyed herself, as it was based on French architecture. The House had been set up to be in the 17th Century style with the Duchess in prime location. It was very Dark house as windows were expensive in those days. The Staircase was all wood and carved in details of roses. Meanwhile the painting were of Naval Battles. The main entrance polished marble tiles, with Painting of all the owners over the years. There was a small chapen was the live in Priest The grand Entrance way is actually new, as the owner in 1850's removed the portion of the second floor to big it look bold. As it was dark,

Another bright Summers day, And we set off for Pangbourne, with a short river walk upto Basildon House. The train from Slough directly to Pangbourne. so it was a easy ride.  The House down by the river were old, with some looking great like this one, some were not. Due to camera issues, a lot of photo's are missing. But the walk along the river to Basildon House was a beautiful one.  We walked up the side street to see there was short cut as well.  Appears there wasn't  Once at Basildon House, it grandeur and beauty were well worth the walk.  This 1800 centenary House has been well restored,  It had been a family family right up to the 1950, when the family left.  But outside the sun was shining and inviting.  The view over the Thames valley was picturesque as well.  The garden Flowers were out in Bloom as well.  The court yard was too much for someone with Hayfever.  Inside we learnt the lady of the house traveled a