The organist librarian

Joined South Norwood library and got 2 Japan guides and went to Central to collect "The Chrysalids". Completed surveys on Croydon and Wandsworth websites about closures. Watched Halcyon river diaries, Winchester cathedral carols and Question of sport.

Watched the 3 Royal Institution Christmas lectures which were about size and quite fascinating given by Mark Miodownik and Toast about the early life of Nigel Slater. The ladies of letters Christmas letters on radio 4 quite hilarious and a good programme about becoming a widower - get out of the house. Well I have not been swimming thanks to a cough and cold and waking up later but have been for some walks round the block as I have definitely put on weight.

Bruce got away OK and we enjoyed Rolf Harris painting the Dream (MND) and the Goodies! Alos a superb programme on polar bears. Finished watching Liverpool Christmas. House seems very quiet. Great news from Cllr Bashford - looks like free swimming for pensioners may stay!

Lots of Cathedral folk at Sharon's - chatted to Catenian couple from Malta, Fr Tim, Julie from Nigeria, young lady from Zimbabwe, man from Ealing originally from Warsaw.Lots of nice eats including salmon, ham and Christmas cake and champagne. I was driving and gave Patrick and couple from Thornton Heath lifts. Today had a lie-in and took stuff up to Glyn Close - nearly all snow washed away. Watched Polar Express and loved it! Watched Upstairs Downstairs 2 and 3, Miss Potter (what a delight!) and a bit of Liverpool Christmas Eve service.

7 services played for or attended over the 3 days! 2 Masses at Purley where Canon Jim was on great form. He spoke about the Bethlehem wall and banning "O little town"! Bill's girls sang In dulci jubilo beautifully and the music group did well on the Sunday including Bernadette Farrell's "Bread of life". The 2 crib services were better attended and Midnight went really well. I was particularly pleased that Walton's "All this time" came off well and we did some unusual ones like "Once as I remember". Why Molly gets given a mike for "Once in royal" is beyond me as she does not need one! Stopped after verse 4 and Tony came to the organ to say technical hitch We have forgotten the baby for the crib so much scurrying about in the dark! I was first home followed by Louise and Bruce from St John's and Liz much later in the hired car from the cathedral. Christmas Day such excitement never got any breakfast as we opened presents w...

To Acton to fetch Ciarán and Louise. We watched "The Other Boleyn girl" after a roast dinner. Thursday to get hire car for Liz and to John Lewis at home for tea and bought my new 13" laptop with my leaving present. Very nice and should be ideal for the trip which is now booked and paid for - all this outlay but plenty in bank! Babysat Ciarán while Liz and Louise went to sea bass. Calix is coming on Christmas Day.

Set up dining room table from Bow and Liz has bought a lovely matching cover for it. To tai chi and Tony taught us some good breathing exercises - my left shoulder still giving trouble. To Baden Powell house for rehearsal. Very nice meal at Carluccio's with Peter Kirby. The concert went really well and I spoke to Stephen Cleobury briefly. We sang Vivaldi Gloria and carols. King's sang a lovely selection including Villette Hymne a la Vierge, Goldschitt, Warlock's Bethlehem Down. Got a 452 to Battersea Park in snow and could have got earlier train to Thornton Heath but West Norwood was due. It never came so ended up going to Thornton Heath any way and 468 home - back by 11.20. Wed evensong from Chester cathedral. This was in fact the last concert I sang with the Chorus! 17.8.2011

The course has certainly given me lots of confidence. The trickiest thing was skinning the sole fillets. The roast lamb was delicious and chocolate brownies yummy! Snow came down Friday lunch time but got to Coulsdon OK. Thursday I went to rehearsal with Stephen Cleobury and all went well. Friday practice went well. Liz was at John Lewis carol service. Saturday to Battersea Park library reading group to discuss "Oliver Twist". Unfortunately did not have phone and skipped the lunch to get to East Croydon only to find that Messiah had been postponed because of the snow! So I finished my Christmas shopping and on getting home cleared up. Sunday buses to Coulsdon and stayed at church. The carol service went really well and featured Angels' carol by John Rutter and Jesus Christ the apple tree arranged by Alan Bullard to the tune "O waly waly". To Janet Stimpson's for nice eats and wine. Buses home and watching Sports personality of the year. Last night watched fi...

Sunday stayed at church. We sang "Rejoice in the Lord alway" (anon) and I played Bairstow and Statham on Veni Emmamuel. We sang carols at Clifton and Crystal homes and it was much appreciated. I took the keyboard back to church and took Caroline home. Tried to print off Christmas letter without success but emailed it. Drove to Acton and on cookery course at Prue Leith's for the week. At first a muddleup over the booking and cheque but Liz started Intermediate and I on basic key skills. Monday making pastry and crudites with hummus and Tuesday delicious mango and chili salad with spinach. Demo on roast dinners - lovely meat. Wednesday made Italian bread and filleted sole with difficulty. Baby sat Ciarán. Tuesday to mass at the cathedral - the boys sang Stanford's A song of wisdom, Rorate coeli and Faure Messe basse superbly. Fr Alexander sang Mass beautifully and homily on St John of the Cross. To talk on Newman and friendship by Fr Seward from Oxford oratory - interes...

Dismantled the dining room table using Allan keys and took it up to the garage in the car. Put up the trees and decorated them. Lounge one has 400 lights and numerous decorations. Liz carried on and I went to Mass via West Norwood. Arrived as vespers was starting. Charlie there as Challoner choir were singing "O thou the central orb" by Wood and This is the truth arrived Vaughan Williams. Fr Michael and all went well. Spoke to Canon Christopher about the medal and congratulated Fr Alexander on his singing on the broadcast.

Liz to Bow and I went to Glyn Close as the bed was delivered. I took up the rest of the carpet and put it in the skip. Measured for carpets and our bedroom and study and upstairs also done. Movers arrived at 3.45. Could not get table parts through door. Stored stuff in garage. Table from Bow is nice. To choir practice and did all the carols. Liz was at Santa Lucia service with Ann Sophie Van Otter singing. I drove past her at Selhurst as did not get texts!

Swam 40 lengths. To see Vickie. She produced draft contract and quite happy about New Zealand. On way there to Ikea to get mattress for sofa bed. Bruce went shopping. Liz picked up repaired clock, Drove to Acton and Ciarán on good form. To cathedral to Mass - I was boat. Bishop Alan Hopes stuck in traffic. Student protest closed Westminster. To APRG at New Scotland Yard nice eats and met man from Kingston mosque.

Woke at 6 and wrote first draft of the Christmas letter. To Islamic centre near Ladbroke Grove - we were late and only 4 turned up for the tour. Faheem made is very welcome and we stayed for middday prayers and answered questions. To Kensington High Street Trailfinders to find out about New Zealand and draft tour came this evening. I was acolyte with Ross at broadcast vespers from the cathedral and at Mass of the Immaculate conception. The choir were superb - Parsons Ave Maria, Palestrina Magnificat. The Archbishop gave an excellent homily but it was very hot sitting on the bench. The Apprentice was good but Liz should not have gone! Bruce has arrived!

Photos by Liz Shaw

Woke early, swam 20 and loaded bits of drawers and cupboards from snowy front garden into car and then to Glyn Close into 2nd skip. Also threw out carpet. To Camden town hall for boroughs interfaith forum. I was late but that bit was about More than Gold. Interesting discussion on the relation between councils and forums. To the Renoir cinema to see "Of Gods and men" - very moving film about the murdered Trappist monks in Algeria. To British museum to see prints Picasso to Meurette and fine Buddhist exhibition. Met Pat Kahn Battersea Park reader. To Church House bookshop and bought calendar for Ann and Paul and "Cathedral music" magazine which has a photo of both of us serving at the cathedral. To Westminster Abbey evensong Clucas introit, Brahms motet and Taverner Collegium regale canticles. Psalm 90 to minor chant by Lang. To Balham - got prescription - only one pill! Met Liz Shaw the photographer. Liz Jensen met the reading group - 16 came. She was excellent. I ...

I am delighted Susan Philipsz won the Turner prize - hers was the only impressive contribution!

To see Dr Attard - he says not to worry about borderline ECG. I need to go to the hearing aid clinic and got a prescription. To tai chi - Eileen joined us. Home for lunch and Liz returned from Purley. To Orford house and Woodcote Grove for 2 short carol services - 3 of the choir came. Thick snow at the homes. Lovely grand pianos one a Bluethner. We had tea and first mince pie of the season! To Croydon parked near flyover. To public gallery of full Council meeting - a bear pit with poor speaking and bad behaviour. I asked a supplementary question pointing out the health benefits of swimming. Cllr Sara Bashford did not answer the question about the actual costs and the saving. Home for dinner and watched University challenge and World's strictest parents in India. Looked up council site. 2nd test exciting.

Woke early again. Set off for the pool determined to be green and get the bus but first one was full so started clearing frost off car. Beer box split so cans all over the pavement! Got to pool at 8.15 so only 26 instead of 40 as meters start at 9. Maybe a nice warm car is better in the winter? Brought party stuff in from car and 7 Christmas boxes from shed - very dirty. Mr Fox jumped over fence using the birch tree to help - later saw him on roof of shed behind our garden large as life! Most of the snow has gone.

Buses to church although snow had gone on roads. Took some retirement cake which was much enjoyed. Choir sang "I look from afar" by Palestrina really well. I played Bach Wachet auf and Thiman on Winchester New. The Byrd 3 part Kyries going well too. Got train from Coulsdon South at 11.46 and to Dartmouth Castle at Hammersmith for lunch and family party for Ciarán who was on great form walking about. Nice that Mia came too. Had shank of lamb. Lovely chocolate cake decorated by Louise. Antiques roadshow on return home and Art of Germany with Andrew Graham-Dixon.

We have chocolate Advent calendars, Advent candle and wreath! The process of adjustment between the 2 of us continues with a mixture of emotions - missing seeing people all day, being quiet, sadness, joy! Who is in charge here? Couple of disasters - put soda in dishwasher instead of salt, freezer somehow got switched off when keyboard was unplugged so food thrown out. Spent day enjoying radio 3 and reading Separate beds by Elizabeth Buchan which is rather bleak and sad at the moment. I took buses and got off 2 only to find no tube from Brixton to Victoria so as a result was late for Mass. We came home on buses. Not impressed again by children's choir. We did not go to Friends party - £20 is too much and worried about getting home. BBC Choir of the year on TV, Ann in gorgeous Hilton hotel at Paracas because of change of plans. Today Saturday was Colin Slee's funeral - a great and brave man. I missed Academy of St Cecilia concert at St George's cathedral.

Sent Chris a list of attendees and apologies for the party. Still eating baguette and pate! Watched Michael Wood's History of England and Zoo. Liz cut up carpet at Glyn Close. Choir practice and Catenians next week cancelled because of snow.

Just stopped hoovering to listen to cello concerto by Moeran on radio 3. I am missing seeing people all day in the library - it's quiet here in the snow!

Phone the Tate - snowdoors sculpture This retirement lark is great! Wake early and get breakfast and read prayers and meditations. Back to bed for warm lie-in. Snow everywhere - 6 inches on top of 5 inches Wed. Managed to dig out path but that got covered twice! Got to car and rescued food and cards and cake. No sign of the cheque with the cards so another will have to be issued - Andrew funny about that on email. Must have gone in the bin. Wed. watched the Apprentice - Laura got chucked out. No way I could get to spirituality day on Wed - no trains, buses not coming down hill. Thursday drew up list of jobs and cleared top rooms into the garden to make snowdoors art display with dustbins! Another trip to the car in Whitworth Road - some idiots still trying to drive up our road! Got 468, 196 and tube from Brixton to get to chorus. Stefan said Vivaldi was very good and then after carols did 3 movements again. I got home OK by same route. It was cold! Watched Art of Cornwall and The Divin...

My last day and it snows! Walked to station and train OK. Liz drove with rest of stuff - she brought a lot last night. We went for coffee and cake at Bertie and Boo. Did a list of useful numbers and cleared up desk (nearly left my favourite paperweight which is a glass book inscribed John Woodhouse librarian!) and Valiant for truth Dad's article! At 5 offically closed emails. About 25 cried off because of the snow but plenty of folk came and it was a great party. Bertie and Boo were filming in the hall at 5.10 but we got set up in time. Bruce came from Birmingham. Ciarán behaved impeccably. Liz official council photographer took lots of photos and group ones. Balham staff gave me a voucher and cards. Andrew, Chris, Fiona and Cindy walked from Clapham Junction! Speeches went well and I sang "A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square". David came from Leicester and gave me a Schaeffer pen. Dom Perignon champagne from the children. Champagne from Jane. I gave roses to Liz, flowe...

Woke late so only 16 lengths. A wierd day taking down pictures and clearing up, did game plan, interviewed staff and finished off some work, At lunch time to tai chi at Battersea. Only Howard there but good to be back with Tony again. Several people not coming to party. Liz brought stuff to the library and brought pictures and box home.

Cold! At Coulsdon we sang "Creator of the stars of night" arranged by John Scott, Kyries Byrd in 3 parts, Wood in the Phyrgian mode and I played Lloyd Webber's Rhapsody on "Helmsley". To Mass at Purley with David Palmer stuff - having a resident composer may not be a good thing! Soup and pizza for lunch - Liz bought party stuff at Iceland. Advent carols at St John's. Adrian gave me a funny retirement card. Guerrero Canite tuba, Stanley Vann (1910-2010) There is a flow'r, Jacob's ladder arranged by Stephen Darlington (I sang the solo - a charming piece), Veiled in darkness by Glenn Rudolph, Nun komm der heiden heiland of Bach at the end. Sorted out some songs for Tuesday but some missing from our Welsh visit!

My last Saturday and rather busy, Claire Corcoran came in and she said she remembered me at Addiscombe! Played for Songs of Praise for St Andrew's day featuring modern hymns. Lots of fish and chips and desserts followed by talent of auctions. Missed train by seconds so buses home on a very cold night.

To South London interfaith lunch and Jon was there. Lots going on for National Interfaith week. Meryl and Daphne said they would take me out to lunch in January - they were doing the training course in the hall. To Westfield - most impressive and met Louise and Ciarán - he is walking very well. To Islington for recording of soundtrack for Merlin 3 - no TV to watch this time and a new piece from Rowan at 9.30 p.m. Home at 10.30 cake and schloer for Dennis's birthday. Today to Putney for my last senior development forum - Liz made delicious cakes for it and Andrew mentioned it 3 times and I got a big clap! I got my hair cut in West Hill. Police came about a case left outside library but nothing came of it. Dennis and Anne Marie still here. Liz went off to serve for Mass for Christians in Iraq.

To St Dunstan in the West which is a Romanian Orthodox church as well, and heard part of the Medtner piano sonata in G minor, Op. 22 played by Chisato Kusunoki. To Tate modern to see the amazing sunflower seeds by Ai Weiwei and recorded 2 video comments for the artist. The Gauguin exhibition was excellent but so many people! Cream tea in the friends room with a wonderful view but hard to hear evensong on the radio. Also looked around the main exhibits and films by Rosa Barba. To chorus and saw Oxford Street lights - umbrellas and boxes and blue arches in New Bond Street. Merlin rehearsal with Rob Lane. Watched The Apprentice.

To Westminster Abbey - I was late so was greeted by the Dean in full rigout! A splendid service with msuic by Palestrina and Child. Wesley's Ascribe unto the Lord and a stunning commission Vast ocean of light from Jonathan Dove. The hymns were the Old 100th, I heard the voice of Jesus say and O praise ye the Lord. Horrid Messiaen at the end! Saw Adrian, Terence, bass from the Nicholson singers, Dorio and Anne Walsh from interfaith group. It doesn't work as well in the Abbey. Good sermon from Lord Griffiths. I did not get to speak to John Hawes. Nearly walked into Whitehall and missed student protests - police closed it off so tube to Temple for Matthew Martin's recital of Peeters, Schumann and Francis Pott Toccata. Oliver Brett was there.

I have been contemplating Fr Daniel's comment that "it is through our wounds that the Light shines into us". Cardinal Newman points out that in our ordinary work we can try to reach perfection. We do not stop our work to say the Angelus, the Angelus transforms our work. So it is in service that we show forth love. All we need to do is recognise the love of God for us weak as we are and allow the flow and the joy to shine through our lives in every part. How difficult this can be as we block the light in so many ways. I have been looking at websites about becoming an oblate. There does seem to be a group based in London. I have contacts in Worth, Minster, Belmont, Ealing and Doaui so the choice is wide. At this important time one must discern the right path to follow.

Dennis and AnnMarie are here having been to see Ciarán. Dennis has exams so off to Manchester. 34 lengths. To Victoria medicentre for my health check - my last one under the scheme. Nurse recognised me and a nice doctor. All is well. Cleared out music basement. To Cathedral hall for Silence in the City with Fr Daniel O'Leary who writes in The Tablet. He spoke about being authentic and letting in the light, going with the flow and the joy.

Bruce did in fact go back to Birmingham on Thursday to get more stuff. I went to chorus and we rehearsed Merlin 3 with Debbie. Emails about the low B flat for the tenors! Friday I did December music list and Christmas music draft, Darren and John organised a skip to get rid of the unwanted stuff from upstairs and Glyn Close. Dennis's old room looks much larger and will become my study. We set off to Paddington via London Bridge and Baker Street and arrived early. Train journeys went smoothly and at Newport we met Fr Barry Angus and Eric. Barry used to be parish priest at South Norwood but had to retire because of cancer. He is an oblate of Belmont. At Hereford we stood in fog for an hour as 3 taxis had crashed on the bridge and there was gridlock. Our taxi took an hour to get there and we arrived for dinner having missed session 1. David Briggs gave a splendid recital on the new Nicholson organ. He played Franck 3, Bach Toccata in F (pedal reed too loud for upper work) Dupre, Haydn...

Sat a.m. long chat to David Briggs and he signed my Franck. He was hilarious about Langlais and falling in love with a beautiful girl and being rejected! If you have experienced this you can play Franck! I was up early for 6.30 a.m. Vigils. At Mass we sang Alan Rees Mass of Peace and visited his grave. Excellent sessions from Dom Brendan on "Nothing more beautiful" ending with a meditation on the Our Father. Sunday up early and conventual mass of Christ the King - Orbis factor, Rejoice the Lord is King, Hail redeemer, The king of love and Christus vincit. Vierne No. 1 from Brother Stanislaus at the end. Final session before lunch. Taxis to cathedral and attended service for road victims. Lovely music - Faure, Goodall, The organ did not help in A touching place. Franck Prelude fugue and variation at the end. Got food for supper in M & S and wine left from Sat night. Exposition with lots of candles and vespers. After compline played the organ - old keyboards and loud! Bach,...

Good breakfast. Jet ill so packed up both cars and left around 11.30. Stopped for fish and chips at service area which had been burnt down and a temporary structure! Got to the new house outside Guildford around 4.15 having driven through Bracknell forest. Nice room and a share with 5 others. Drove home and back by 6 having listened to Hereford evensong. Ireland Greater love and Franck Choral No. 3. Dad's book is beautifully bound in 7 volumes and called "Finding a balance". The last sentence is "If music be the food of love, play on" - a fitting ending! Still more boxes to bring down.

Option 2 to be open for consultation which means reduced opening hours for all, York closed, cut in book fund and management team. Rang Angela. Deleted more old videos. Meryl and Hilary came for reading group. 17 came and Wendy Perriam was excellent and fascinating. She liked the flowers! Dashed off to Euston on train and tube and there in good time to get to M & S for sandwiches. 9 am train and stayed at Etap in Birmingham.

Gave Liz card and book on the Pope's visit - she had guessed what it was! Typical! Took her to lunch at Gazette French restaurant oppposite the library. We had grilled sardines with cherry tomatoes, she had chicory and I had terrine. Chocolate ice cream and raspberry for Liz. Birthday cake and coffee at the coffee shop complete with candle! More meetings and clearing up. Mrs Oliver friendly and sorry to hear of cuts - I told 5 people who did not know about them - meeting is tonight. Let's hope for Option 2!

Early start as first service at 9.30. We sang Beatitudes to Greek chant really well! At second service with Royal British legion a good bugler but not told we were starting as late as possible so played Thalben-Ball Elegy, Solemn melody, Nimrod and Willan on St Anne and they came in in silence! Pie Jesu of Faure went really well (2 part version), St Anne fugue at the end. To Memorial hospital Shooters Hill an hour's drive in time for lunch and saw the memorial. To Firepower museum Woolwich for interfaith service with film. Fr Scanlon led it. National anthem to a recording did not work - band too slow and ran out of music in verse 2. Cup of tea and Hindu contact and Peace pagoda monk there so asked about a visit. Home and not to evensong - bit tired!

David Attenborough on fossils was interesting. Only one more Saturday to go - I was a couple of minutes late today. Threw out more old videos - sad to think that technology has overtaken them. To Mass at cathedral and arrived at offertory so all those dreary visits to Tooting Bec could have been avoided but I do like to be there for the whole service! Good choir from Shepton Mallet and Bach Fantasia in C minor. Excellent servers supper in the hall - starter, sausages and cake. Enjoyed chatting to Peter Stevens and Fr Michael Durand.

Wonderful 90 minute programme about Elgar on BBC4

Getting on with cataloguing scores and meeting about increasing issues.Tracy's PRP. Very heavy rain on way home. Practised carols and chose some different ones.

Wed to Interfaith group. I was late but the group had waited. I thought I had booked the Hinsley room and clergy house was inavailable. Any way we went to the cathedral cafe and had a good discussion there. Olga joined us for the first time. Met Sister Judith who had been in Peru for 30 years and lives in Croydon. To Chiswick and lunch at Carluccio's (gnocchi) and a yummy chocolate cake at Maison Blanc. Bought bells for Ciarán for Christmas at lovely toy shop. He is taking a couple of steps and climbing stairs, also throwing the ball and his bricks. To chorus for carols in great detail. The young Philharmonia voices have joined us. 9pm train to Birmingham (read Tablets) and started Kate Atkinson's "Started ealy, took my dog". Bruce arrived from Reading soon after I did so a taxi to the flat. Slept Ok and up at 8.15 a.m. Dismantled the units which Bruce has sold on Ebay. To the bindery to collect 4 copies of Dad's book "Finding a balance" all beautifully ...

To Age concern meeting at a very nice sheltered housing scheme in Thurleigh Road. I outlined the cuts and chatted to Lilias about St Columba's Pont street where she is an elder. Easy walk from the library. Did not have to go on the desk at all so did Lily's PRP and catalogued scores and caught up on admin. Showed Sabina ordering stationery and petty cash book. Fell asleep watching High Street programme.

Very heavy rain but surprisingly no leaks in library roof. Julian's mid-term PRP interview. Nice Diwali lunch from Milap group which I heated up for my tea! Andrew Green, Meryl and Sharni came for 2 meetings about cuts - good that we are discussing and Meryl remarked how mature and sensible the staff were. Yvonne Clarke came in and she will bring Penny who used to work at Battersea to the party!

Took Liz to St John's and collected Ciarán's stuff from Claire's, To All Saints Kenley - not easy to find in the dark - in fact I drove past it! Linda Williams' last service moving to Harpenden. Eric Bevan plays well and the organ is a Hunter. The bass booms and there is someone in the sopranos not on the note. Good hymns for All Saints includng "In our day of thanksgiving" and Karg-Elert at the end. Met Eric and Olga who has 6 children and sings in the choir. Listened to BBC Choristers of the year - odd how some boys sound like sopranos if they have vibrato.

Two Bookes of Ayres: The First Booke XI. by Thomas Campion. Neuer weather-beaten Saile more willing bent to shore, Neuer tyred Pilgrims limbs affected slumber more, Than my wearied spright now longs to flye out of my troubled brest : O come quickly, sweetest Lord, and take my soule to rest. Euer-blooming are the ioys of Heau'ns high paradice, Cold age deafes not there our eares, nor vapour dims our eyes : Glory there the Sun outshines, whose beames the blessed onely see ; O come quickly, glorious Lord, and raise my spright to thee. We sang this at Coulsdon and I played Howells Psalm Prelude Set 1 No. 2 and Walton's Crown Imperial. Frankie (odd name) was baptised complete with dummy! Vintage car run this morning. Catenians were at Cathedral Mass.

Up early despite a day off and watched end of Big silence part 3. Also more episodes of Michael Wood's history of England based around Kidworth in Leicestershire. Changed to thick quilt, hoovered and took out vegetable stuff to compost heap. To Towards Advent in cathedral hall and saw John Ainslie and Mary Rouse on SSG stall, also met Clare and Polish tenor from Acton who sang at the wedding! Bought a CTS booklet on praying with Newman. To Royal Academy. The Glasgow boys very crowded. Nothing new under the sun an intriguing collection of old and new. Dennis was late for tea and we only saw him for 15 minutes! Vespers and confirmation with Bishop Alan Hopes who does it so well! The new Westminster children's choir enthusiastic but not very much on the note and this caused younger servers to giggle. We sang Now thank we all our God and Peter played the Karg-Elert. Car in Pimlico and home amid fireworks. We got fish and chips. Watched Michael Palin on the end of World War I. Alexa...

To choir practice and started choosing carols. On way home listened to Jacqueline Wilson talking about happiness. I have been singing the Hsrper Lamb of God all week. Spoke to Barry today and he is coming to the party like everyone else - only 2 people missing it so far!

Thursday 40 lengths. To chorus to rehearse for Kings college concert in great detail. Friday Liz was baby sitting Ciarán last night. To Battersea to get shop stock. To town hall for meeting about the cuts which are bad. Option 1 involves closing 6 libraries, Option 2 cuts in opening hours. To pensions dept with documents. 3 staff meetings to explain cuts. Thank God I am retiring when I am and if Battersea Park closes I shall be very upset. I expect the public to go for option 2.

2 crowns at dentist instead of the expensive bridge and nothing more to pay! To 3 Glyn Close which is looking empty. To spirituality day on "Blessed are those who mourn" with Mary Lean who has African connections. She is excellent on a difficult subject and gave us some fine poems and passages. Maureen was there in the morning but the tube strike affected attendance. To Tate Britain to see Eadweard Muybridge (much of it pretty dull) and the Turner Prize - only liked the singing but is it art? Love the 2 fighter planes in the Duveen gallery. Decided not enough time to get to Ciarán's. To Regent Hall with Liz and Maureen. Fr Allen there. Inspiring presentation about More than Gold. Christan volunteers at the Olympics. Met James Parker the RC rep. Watched The Apprentice.

40 lengths and tried to interest pensioners in protesting about the end of free swimming next April! Showed Sabina and Chris how I do the game plan - my last ever one and changed it 3 times! The tube strike made for a quiet evening catching up on things. Have done more invites for the party. Watched a nostalgia programme about the 20s and 30s and the secret life of the National Grid. Liz was smoke at cathedral Vespers and then to Bromley Parish Church to sing in Howells Requiem. Suddenly felt on way home how lucky I am to be alive on this All Souls day with a wonderful wife, family and friends. Gerry said something last night about how nothing matters and I can't agree - everyone matters and we are blessed by those who have gone before. There was also a lot of nonsense about jollies for Catenians from people who have never been to annual conference!

Downton Abbey was excellent again. Loaded lots of photos onto laptop. Woke late and got in at 9am. Liz went to Bow for gas man and they were delayed. Meetings with Chris and Sabina and lots more clearing out of rubbish and old videos! Sonalle took her photos down. To Catenian meeting 10 of us and 10 visitors. Chatted to Roy Parker and Frank Brennan. Colin gave me a lift home - I had Guinness. Chatted to Oliver Brett on face book - he goes to Sydney Dec 26 to Jan 7.

There was a good congregation for the service. We had a quintet and we sang Psalm 121 to Barry Rose's chant, Thou knowest Lord and Nunc Dimittis to Tonus peregrinus - the latter 2 unaccompanied as the keyboard is so naff! I played Vierne Epitaphe, 2 Brahms choral preludes and angel's farewell from Gerontius at the end. The hymns were Praise my soul, Lord of all hopefulness, Love divine and Immortal invisible and we used "O Lord hear my prayer". There was time for me to light 4 candles for the grandparents and all the names were read out. Arnold's 5th symphony on way home and William Mathias on The Choir with Stephen Cleobury.

Played the Howells Sine nomine prelude today and we sang Harris Holy is the true light. Congregation liked the drone effect during the said Eucharistic prayer but the pedal is too loud so not using that again. Molly practised and so did I including Howells Psalm Prelude Set 1 no 2. To Bromley for pie at the Partridge as Liz was rehearsing Howells Requiem at Bromley Parish church for Tuesday. Spoke to Dennis and watching "The big silence" for the bits I missed when I dropped off. Marvellous programme.

Friday missed swim again. More at practice and started on some carols after doing all the November music. I have started reading the new Alexander McCall Smith book and also the third Corduroy Mansions book online from the Telegraph. Saturday woke late and in for 10 a.m. There is no point in being too early and not getting the time back. Sent Meryl an email about the need for a new desk as we were very busy with queues. Have started getting rid of old videos and clearing up - only a month to go. To Tooting Bec for first Mass of All Saints with a visiting priest elderly but pleasant and he spoke about his family in the homily. Good programme on BBC on Piero della Francesca's Baptism.

Woke too late to go swimming. To South London interfaith group lunch at Quaker meeting house, Streatham - big discussion about the cuts. PRP midterm interview with Chris. To Catenian council at Colin's - carols are wanted at the Christmas party.

To see Vickie at 99a St Andrew's Road which has a lovely garden and very homely - much nicer than the vicarage which is being rebuilt.Short discussion about going freelance which makes sense. Am reading Introduction to Buddhism - it might be that the MA in Abrahamic religions is a better option? To St Michael's - a good audience for Marilyn Harper - the end of the series. Chat to Dorio Melfi. John Blitheman, Alain and Rheinberger Sonata No 8 including the mighty Passacaglia. To Acton in 45 minutes - connections all worked. Just missed Grainne who had taken Liz over. Ciarán brightened up on my arrival and laughed at sneezes! We were home by 8.30 and watched The Apprentice - Melissa has gone - hurrah!

Monday on till 8. 3 PRP interviews! Tuesday swam 30 as didn't sleep well again! One PRP interview and more clearing up. Home at 2 ans watched "The Silence" from Worth Abbey and St Bueno's. Harry Mellor picked us up Russell hotel Maidstone for mercifully short Provincial council meeting and a very nice dinner. We sat with the Aitkins. Home by 11 Harry hit a wall coming onto the M20 but OK. He is 82!

Took car seat from David to Grainne's.Only 4 in choir so we did Rutter and Howells My eyes for bueaty piane. I played Bedrich Janacek and Vaughan Williams on Hyfrodol. My playing is much more confident since the recital! Practised with Molly and organ. To St Leonard's Streatham for Lambeth interfaith meeting about helping the poor. Met the Imam. Rabbi and Fr Tom from Corpus Christi also spoke well. I quoted Lord Gummer about the widening gap between rich and poor in UK and that there are more middle class people in India than in Western Europe. Back to Coulsdon by bus (5th time this week) for Churches together in Coulsdon Bible Sunday service whcih was well attended. Watched Downton Abbey and Antiques roadshow.Nearly finished the Tablet already!

Did not sleep well again. Put away short sleeved shirts and sorted out some to give away - I won't need so many now! Haircut and tidying up. Arrived at St Andrew's early and set out cakes for the break, Rather disturbed by man who came in and said he wanted to sit in the church. I said I was sorry but No as I was on my home, He said "What are churches for? " but he left. The recital went well. I played Peeters, Ireland, Howells, Jackson and Armstrong Gibbs and it was appreciated. Norman Harper was complimentary and did not know Howells Sine Nomine prelude. After juice and cakes Martin Ball spoke about King's Cambridge organ and Rodney Williams spoke about being a chorister under Boris Ord. He was amusing and Charles Hazell joined in. Ann was there too - nice to see her again. To Cathedral and got diary at St Paul's. Vespers and Mass - Mill Hill fathers and Challoner choir singing Peter Hurford's In the hour of my distress and an unaccompanied Tantum ergo w...

Swam 40 lengths and pleased pool has reopened but gents change room in darkness! Had a run in with cleaner about cleaning downstairs and gardener about removing ivy. Comments form said staff were inflexible - can only think of 1 such! Lady distraught that library might close so I assured her that one of the busiest in London would not close! David came to lend car seat for Alexis and he folded up the playpen. Only 3 at practice as Jenny coming back from Lincoln and Bob in hospital with stroke.

To Coulsdon to discuss Nov music with Vickie who is very comfortable at 99a St Andrew's Road while the vicarage is rebuilt. She is quite relaxed about me going free lance. To St Michael's for Richard Cook's recital. Franck Chorale 3, Stanley and Jongen Sonata Eroica. He played well. Evensong from Tewkesbury featured Ascribe unto the Lord. To St Mary le Bow where I met Liz who had been in Bow and Spitalfields. Lord Gummer spoke without notes on social justice and it was most interesting. To the cathedral for David Hill's recital - Howells, Willan, Franck, Roger-Ducasse, Gardonyi, JSB - a varied programme. To Jugged Hare for drinks with Richard Cook, Stephen Disley and his Dad, Adrian and Carl. Today finished at 6 and watched The Apprentice as no internet downstairs for some reason. Liz went to chorus to take Stefan a letter.

Up early having woken at 3am mulling over retirement speech -once again the pool was closed so early to work and cleared up outside including a tramp's clothes, bedding, bottles and syringes! Did a lot of donations and more clearing out. To Maureen's farewell do at HDLS at Wandsworth Town and everyone talking about mine! To ENO for Handel's Radamisto - lovely sets and costumes and stunning singing especially from Lawrence Zazzo and Ailish Tynan.

Awoke early so walked to the pool only to find it closed as pumps had broken down. Met Geoff Boulton on the early train. I fixed up a wire cover over the desk wires using my electric screwdriver and also fixed a broken drawer. Did a lot of clearing out in staff room and music and basement. Have now got a recycling bin in each room. Tired out - had chicken and Christmas pudding left from yesterday's lunch. Harry will give us a lift next Tuesday.

Worked Saturday and before I left tidied up and hoovered as Ciarán and Louise came to stay! To St Anselm Tooting for Mass. Ciarán awake at 7am Sunday - I worke 3 to 5 am so read Tablet - I did crossword. We sang Boyce Alleluia at Coulsdon and first outing for the John Harper settings. Molly rehearsed and I got tradecraft stuff and practised for my recital. After lunch took Ciarán and Louise home. He is trying a step and enjoyed the lake this morning. At St John's sang Gibbons short service and Ireland Greater love - Liz did the solo. Howells Psalm Prelude Set 1 no 1 at the end.Martin Baker remarked that he only played Howells twice a year at the Abbey - not enough I say!

Thursday finished at 2 and met Liz at the Royal Academy. The Treasures of Budapest very well displayed with brown walls. Odd how the really great paintings stand out in such a collection - Raphael, Goya, Monet, Toulouse Lautrec. Interesting to see work by some of the artists mentioned in Caravaggio: a life sacred and profane by Andrew Graham-Dixon which I have just finished. Tea in the friends room and a stroll round Fortnum and Mason - brilliant presentation of tea! Walked to St Martin's in the Fields where we had chicken supreme in the cafe. Our Metro offer seats in the upper circle were good and we thoroughly enjoyed Faust which I had not seen on stage. Delicious chocolate icecream at 2nd interval.Lovely music and orchestra under Edward Gardner on great form. Toby Spence excellent and a brilliant production and more religious than I expected. We met John Almeida on the train.Friday staff meeting and Julian came to do PRP interview. At choir we tried the John Harper settings.

Spoke to Ann briefly and prepared organ recital programme for October 23rd. Picked up car from near Norwood Junction - did not get messages about it and came home on buses last night. Interfaith group - 7 there and a good discussion. To babysit Ciarán who has made great progress standing well and making more sounds. Louise and Tom went out for a boozy lunch. We had lovely chocolate cake! To chorus where we did carols with Stefan and Liz had brought chocolates to celebrate 40 years in the chorus! She is one of the longest serving members.

Monday enjoyed Voces 8 concert at St Mary at Hill. I was on until 8 and pretty tired. Tuesday reading group discussed "Wolf Hall" and surprised how many did not like it! They seemed upset that I am retiring - you've only just come!

Had a wierd dream about driving in Oz to a holiday house and Liz said we would have to share the house. The man was nice but his wife was not. First thing happened he went in the one bathroom and I was going to be late for church and burst into tears in the kitchen saying the holiday was ruined! To 8am Mass at St Mary's - not a great experience - priest uses voice box and is sometimes intelligible and a man moans at the back all the time and loudly! Harvest at Coulsdon was not a Eucharist as Vickie in Israel and Teresa in hospital. We saw a presentation about Tanzania and sang Harvest samba to the CD. Choir sang Thou visitest the earth by Greene. Practised and bought guide cakes. Harvest lunch quiche and damson crumble - very nice. Evensong from Lincoln Dyson in F and we sang it later at St John's along with King of Glory by Grayston Ives. David Bednall on The Choir on Radio 3.

Spirituality day with Fr Robin Burgess on Benedictine prayer was excellent and he did not use notes! Thursday on to 8 and tired. Friday to funeral Mass of Bob Macey Bromley circle Catenian - church was packed so stood in the porch. A big family. Sorry to miss the good wine at the reception - there were lots of jokes. Fr David O'Regan and Canon Jack Madden were there. Walked to Bromley South and to work. Liz was at Bow and then at Acton. Saturday to work (swapped Saturday for the Papal visit) so doing 3 in a row - putting music scores back onto the catalogue. At lunch time went to artist's open studio at 175 Ramsden Road - lovely sunny pictures. To Martin Baker's recital at St John's. excellent Bach Passacaglia, Howells and Vierne and clever impro on chimes of Big Ben and the Archers! Terence, Ian, Christopher, Michael, Martin and Peter Wright there but not a big audience. Walked home - Liz at Bow to see Dennis.

I found Louise's video of Ciarán pushing the walker we gave him and then saw a whole lot more videos of him I had somehow missed. What a star! Seemed to have missed Ann as got up late. Dentist is postponed so I can help clear upstairs. Big clean happening at Bow today. I am going to spirituality day and then to Acton.

Monday letter is written and retirement on Nov 30th! To Catenians only 12 there and a Beckenham brother acted as chamberlain. Colin was chatting about the Pope and David had seen my Tablet letter. He borrowed the Oberammergau book. Tuesday told staff about retirement - some not surprised. To Southwark cathedral for RSCM open evening. Liz and I did name badges and there was cheese and wine with grapes. Lindsay Gray was there and Ginette Nye's band from St John Redhill was impressive. The choristers of Croydon Parish church sang well and Peter Wright played the organ including the Widor Toccata.

Saturday to Mass at Tooting Bec. Instead of a homily we had an appeal for Cafod which was overlong. At Coulsdon we had 2 baptisms and we sang Alan Smith's "Like the dove". To St Teresa of the Child Jesus, Morden for baptism of Clodagh McGovern along with 4 others. Could not hear the priest except when he sang! A great opportunity to reach out to the unchurched missed - no Bible reading, no homily. In fact chaos with cameras everywhere. To The Surrey Arms for nice lunch - we were with Jan. Home to hear evensong from Southwark.

Wednesday was our day out by coach. We crossed to Anglesey and visited St Siriol's cell and well at Memnon Priory which houses some fine crosses. At Beaumaris we had a simple lunch and ice cream at the Red Boat. The parish church is fine and in each place we had a simple liturgy. The misericords are fine and it was a pity we could not play the organ. At Bangor cathedral we sang vespers with organ interludes in the Magnificat. This did not work as well as it should have done as there was no censing! About 30 people came to listen. Abbot Richard was on the organ beforehand so I never got a chance to play. After supper we much enjoyed a traditional Welsh harper who sang and played. The weather was great after lunch with stunning views on the drive back over the Menai bridge. My 64th birthday was celebrated with chocolate cake and an informal concert. Sr Julian also has her birthday on the same day - she is from Stanbrook now moved to Yorkshire and is a delight! On Friday we had a free...

We set off on Monday to Euston. In the end we got the underground from Brixton. Changed at Chester where we met Anne Holt and at Llandudno Junction we met Fr Martin from Downside. We were collected at the station by Sister Jean and had our session with Fr Henry Wansborough on the new translation of the psalms - he is such an interesting speaker and humourous. It was great to see old friends again like Sr Madeleine Cuddy and Fr Philip. Abbot Richard from Roscrea and Fr Aelred from Northern Ireland were excellent cantors. We soon settled into the monastic routine of mattins and Vespers with sung eucharists for Anglicans and Catholics. John Harper produced some fine simple settings and gave excellent talks about liturgy and music. The food was very good. On Tuesday I skipped workshops (might have tried zither!) to go with Liz on the tram up the Great Orme and then on the cable car back to the pier. We saw the Barbary sheep and enjoyed the fine views and display at the top. We all missed F...

The choir were singing at St John's Old Coulsdon for their 750th anniversary and I took the last of the pictures and crockery for the fair. Jane Winter spoke about the Church Urban Fund's work against poverty and I told her about Bernadette Farrell, interfaith and the library. She said they work with the SVP and other faith communities. She described seeing a man with a child with only one shoe and the mother ignoring the child screaming yesterday and this was in Battersea! I left Coulsdon at 11.45 enjoying Just a minute in the car and arrived at the Roehampton club at 1.15. Rosemary and Lyn gave us a scrumptious meal, starters, roast beef and chocolate cake with cream. Ciarán was on great form. Bruce missed a treat! Lovely to have us all together. Chatted to Flo and Shirley on Skype.

Dennis had arrived last night by car and went with Liz to Bow. I listened to Mahler 5 from the Proms and some Rameau and a programme about eland on the Drakensberg. To St Vincetn de Paul 350th anniversary Mass where I was crozier. Archbishop Vincent on great form and the sound system is much improved. Sr Ellen Flynn sang beautifully and prayerfully. Saw Lyn and Rosemary. Not much time before vespers and Mass - Fr Alexander and the excelletn choir from Billericay. Extra servers as we are to ahve family Mass alternate weeks! Fr Michael said Billy Budd was on radio from Glyndebourne so listened to it. He was at a preview and started reminiscing about Vienne State opera in the Festival Hall in the 50s so I said he should write it all down!

To York library for SDF meeting. It seems the Mrs O episode was my fault - nothing was said about how I had turned the situation around and then the final straw was the suggestion that I could not have my leave next week. This was sorted by Chris coming in next Friday and Fiona offering to come in early if needed. I spoke to pensions and got a quote. I spent the last hour clearing the issue desk prior to it being moved next Wednesday. I have had enough! Fish and chips when Liz returned from Bow and watched part of Royal Ballet tribute to Kenneth MacMillan. Dennis arrived and much discussion about retirement.

Swam 32. Had not been for a week. RFID or SI self issue went live and the computers were removed from the issue desk. I spent nearly the whole day on the enquiry desk double discharging books but the staff worked well and the public reacted well to the new system. Pretty tired. Watched Gareth Malone at prep school for boys - last in series. RSCM committee want to get him next year! Liz at Bow.

Tuesday Daphne came and said I looked tired - I certainly feel early retirement should be considered. One of the new RFID machines is not working properly and the engineer did not turn up. Home to watch a bit of the tiger programme before dropping off! Wednesday to Glyn Close for more clearing up and then to St Michael's for Jonathan Price's recital. He is from Bristol and played Whitlock, Guilmant and Puccini. To Woodside Green before the dentist which took an hour for a crown and filling costing £191 and now a bridge is proposed costing £1100! Evensong from Chichester cathedral featuring Welsey and Harris and marking 50 years of the Southern Cathedrals festival. To the cathedral for Matthew Martin's excellent recital of Litaize, Alain, Langlais, Whitlock Elegy and Francis Pott's toccata. Chatted to Peter Stevens, Martin Ball and Jack Beeson. Watched programme about Sunningdale school and more of the Pope's Mass in Birmingham.

Woke at 6 am and did not go swimming so as to see Ciaran who was full of beans! Liz to Bow for a viewing which did not happen. I apologised to Mrs O about last Monday and she asked me to speak to the yoga class which I did. To RSCM committee at Roger's at Carshalton Beeches. Adrian gave me a lift home. 10 pin bowling is cancelled this year.

Friday to meeting at Battersea and a phone call about Monday's disaster. To choir and 2 missing but we covered all the ground and had a discussion prior to the meeting due for October 1st. As John cannot come on 3rd and 17th asked choir to make suggestions and we tried a few more items in the Oxford book of flexible anthems some of which the choir rejected immediately! Watched at 6 p.m. the memorable service from Westminster Abbey. Rowan Williams gave a great address and so did the Pope. His speech in Westminster Hall was impressive too. Liz has been watching the live web cast 24 hours coverage. Saturday we were up in good time to watch the Mass from the cathedral which was most impressive. wonderful music as there was at the Abbey and again a very fine homily. We spotted the servers and people we know. Sad that we were not asked to take part but there were some girl servers! We left for Hyde Park and arrived there at 3 p.m. so we were in the second row of the invited pilgrims area...

Monday was a horrid day. The caretaker did not turn up so there was a mess not cleared up from the afternoon event so the yoga teacher was most unpleasant although we did our best to clear up and Chris came back to lock up. Tuesday spent time rearranging shelves ready for the self issue machines arrival. This was a waste of time as on Wednesday my superiors moved stands as they saw fit. No doubt yet another boss will have other ideas next week. Am I branch librarian? Thursday brought the news that SP had to go to see her grandmother in Barbados so we will be short. I wish I could retire now and not in one year's time! Wednesday the picture frames arrived so the pictures are up at last! Spent time using the new Sebo which is most impressive. To St Michael's for Ian Coleman's recital. He played his own sonata and the Elgar sonata. Enjoyed baked potato with Francis, Michael and Ian. He was delighted we are come and he played well. Fed up with old computer - took ages to do Oct...

Ciarán slept from 7 to 7 a.m. and was perfectly happy to see us when he woke. I drove to Coulsdon taking in stops at home to try and find the charger for the hedge trimmer (it was in the car all the time!) We sang Gibbons Almighty and everlasting God and I marked 70 years since the Battle of Britain with Walton's Spitfire prelude, Eric Coates Dambusters march and the RAF Marchpast. I got my Fair trade items and practised with Molly. Mass at Purley was rather long thanks to a sermon for Racial Justice Sunday and the David Palmer band and choir. 2 fine Haas psalms and "Sing of the Lord's goodness". Saw Bill and Christine. Lou and Tom returned and Ciarán cried but was soon OK. We had an excellent lunch at the Station House - roast beef and pizza with nutella, banana and cream! We were home by 7.30 and watched a tribute to Dame Vera Lynn who is 92!

I was delighted that Geoff was so complimentary about the library after the senior training session on Thursday. I finished "Broken places" by Wendy Perriam and watched the last night of the Proms 1910 conducted by Paul Daniel with the lovely "Dark pastoral" played by Stephen Isserlis and based on Vaughan Williams. Friday's practice and no bass. I drove to Acton which took about 1 hour and 15 minutes and arrived at 10 p.m. Saturday we babysat Ciarán who was as good as gold. Louise and Tom were at a wedding in Ireland but had left full instructions and rang to check. We went to the park to enjoy the swings and a coffee and after lunch had a sunny walk. The Last Night of the Proms was great with Renée Fleming superb. It has been a wonderful season and I am only sorry that I only got to one Prom this year but I have listened to many on radio, Iplayer and BBC4. A highlight of the concert was Jonathan Dove's new piece and Dvorak's Hymn to the moon. We enjoyed...

Wednesday enjoying Wendy Perriam's "Broken places" which is about a librarian! To see Vickie and choose hymns for October. To Glyn Close where Bruce had come down to pick up a few items and he also sorted out stuff upstairs so the skip can come soon. He and Liz went to Bow as a man came to see the house regarding purchase. Bruckner 7 on radio 3 from the Proms. Interesting programme on secondary school lottery and voices from the Blitz.

Monday to Catenians after work - 10 of us, 12 visitors including Peter Stevens the Provincial President fresh from a trip to South Africa. Very fine Emperor concerto with Paul Lewis from the Proms. Tuesday to JCC with director - I mentioned all the publicity about volunteers running libraries which we agree would never work. Who is going to volunteer to work until 8? Reading group discussed Straw dogs and found it controversial and negative.

To Coulsdon and 4 in the choir. We sang "Day by day" by Martin How and "God be in my head". "Praise to the holiest" and I played Angel's farewell from "Dream of Gerontius" to mark Newman's beatification. Waited in car for Liz and listened to a programme about Miss World 1970 and Just a minute. Dennis had sorted his books out so we took those he is keeping up to Glyn Close and they saw Martin next door. We ate in the garden in sunshine probably our last chance this year for that! Mark Elder conducted a prom of the Last night 1910 which featured a new work based on the slow movement of a cello concerto by Vaughan Williams written for Casals called "Dark pastoral" and Elgar Pomp and Circumstance No. 4. Songs of praise was from South Africa. Ulster orchestra prom in tribute to Sir Henry included Bliss and Bax and Rachmaninoff. I was watching on Iplayer the last in the series on British writers and the broadband went but later saw th...

Picked up Dennis and AnnMarie from Tulse Hill late Friday. Fallback a couple of times today and gradually catching up! To Tooting to Mass - priest is hard to understand. Home by 8 and Berlin Philharmonic with Sir Simon Rattle - Wagner, Strauss 4 last songs with Karita Mattila in purple dress on BBC2.

Fallback ended at last despite 2 false starts so loads of books to sort out. Back to choir practice - only 3 there. Listened to Mahler 1 from Proms Rattle and Berlin Philharmonic and recorded Bruckner 9 on HDD.

Library in fallback since Friday night and finally went live at 3 only to go down again 30 minutes later! I intro'd at first senior development training session and all went well. Great to see Mohammed and Abi again. Came home at 6 as could not do any work on computers and I have time owing. Watched Restoration and Drakensberg wildlife. Tom's birthday today in Ireland.

On Bank Holiday Monday morning to Bromley Parish church for coffee (saw Gary and Michael Toplis) and recital marking 25 years as assistant organist by Peter Spencer. De Heredia, Bach Passacaglia (far superior to da Rosa's version) Parry, Messiaen, Howells Sine Nomine and Saraband in modo elegiaco, Peeters Lied to the Flowers and Alain Litanies. Most enjoyable and the Walker organ as good as ever. Wednesday more shelves up and boxes made and sorted out Nellie's papers and my old diaries. Australian youth orchestra on HDD under Mark Elder - Mahler and Shostakovich. Took old chest of drawers up to garage - Mahler youth orchestra playing Mahler and Bruckner and Hindemith.

Spoke to Ann. Put up new shelves in back bedroom and Liz has got nice blue IKEA boxes to store papers. To spirituality day "Praying with St Augustine" with Margaret Lane. I took the Oberammergau books. Visited the treasures of the cathedral exhibition and recognised some of the chalices! Worth a visit and the wooden model is impressive. Ann says a new young priest has arrived Fr Walters I think she said.

A quiet weekend with mixed weather. Sorted out stuff upstairs and reorganised shelves having packed Dennis's numerous books into boxes! Went to Glyn Close. Served at Mass as usual with said Vespers. Told Fr Michael about interfaith group interest in the Pope's visit. Mum and Dad in the prayers - have now been blogging for 4 years! Baptism at Coulsdon and I played Liebster Jesu and Dubois Toccata. In car to library to take dustbins (been replaced at home) and microwave. Staff meeting for Sunday staff was useful. Finished reading "Wolf Hall" which is brilliant and listening to Proms. Family prom was fun, Edinburgh Tattoo and University Challenge. Ein Heldenleben from Prom conducted by Mark Elder. Frustrating day at work as fallback still on as new system failed. Ended up stricting! Mind you the library needs it - such a mess! Act 2 of Hansel and Gretel on radio from Glyndebourne Prom.

Swam 36. To South London interfaith group lunch at Streatham Hill - not many there. I was asked to speak about the Pope's visit. Liz served at Mass to mark Mother Teresa's birthdate. Prom on BBC4 - Mark-Anthony Turnage Hammered out, Barber violin concerto and Sibelius 2. Good programme on Sibelius early years.

Nice chat to Ann who had a heart palpitation scare thanks to horrid children in her class and 2 of them have been moved to another class. To Watermans Brentford to enjoy "Toy story 3". Ciarán was very good. To Carluccio's for a nice lunch and heavy rain getting back to Shakespeare Road where we met Liz. To the cathedral for di Rosa's recital which was SO LOUD. Liszt, Vierne and Bach Passacaglia with the score. His improvisation on "Adoro Te" could have been on anything! Liz met me at Wandsworth Common, Sad to learn Ernest "John" Warrell had died aged 95 - he will be much missed!

Clearing up upstairs. Put all photos from camera onto Facebook including Cyprus and Germany. So much quicker on the new lap top! Listened to prom Sydney Symphony conducted by Ashkenazy Strauss, Ravel Piano concerto, Scriabin Symphony No.3, Elgar Chanson de Matin as encore. Liz ordered in pizzas. Also caught up on some other Proms - Dvorak New World, Bartok Cantata profana (with the score).

Monday the oversize books got filed into the main non-fiction sequence and Chris and I moved the whole lot round to accomodate. Exhausted! Watched Halle youth orchestra programmes and programme about British writes in the 50s and 60s in their own words. Schumann Symphony N. 2 from the Proms. Tuesday a day's leave. Swam 36 and to New Addington - optician very happy with my eyes and no need to change glasses. Long chat about music as usual. Clearing stuff from upstairs ready to be recycled at Emmaus. Evensong from St Mary's Edinburgh.

By bus to Somerset House for the Glyndebourne film of "Hansel and Gretel". An excellent introduction and a lovely production with great singing especially from Hansel who really did look like a 10 year old boy! The witch was splendid. We enjoyed a picnic and christened our new picnic set and roll up mat. It rained but rain capes were issued. Home in an hour by bus. Haydn Symphony No 102 from the Proms.

The series on channel 4 "Amish; the world's squarest teenagers" might have been better called "Amish: the world's most sensible teenagers". Interesting to compare Amish society with conservative Muslim and Jewish communities. The confrontation between the Amish teenagers on rumspringa and the English teenagers was well handled and there were some interesting similarities. The series on the formation of the Halle youth orchestra also quite fascinating.

To 8 a.m. Mass at St Mary's West Croydon - very elderly priest who I think uses a voicebox. He did not give out communion but there were lots of special ministers doing it. A man at the back of the church kept moaning and it was rather distracting although of course all are welcome. Played 3 pieces by Dr Cecil Armstrong Gibbs at Coulsdon. Folk song, Quiet thoughts and Postlude in D all well crafted. It is 50 years since he died. He was born in Chelmsford in 1889 and was a D Mus from Cambridge. He taught at the Royal College of Music from 1921 to 1939. To library for first staff meeting of Sunday staff which went alright. Various isssues were raised not least the washing up bowl which I have now removed! Watched BBCSO Prom of Huw Watkins new violin concerto and Shostakovich 5th.

Tracy, Chris, Rebecca, Linda and Sabina at BBC. After work with 5 colleagues to BBC opposite the library. Had ale £3.40 a bit steep but nice to sit in the garden after a clammy day moving stock around and sorting out basement. National Youth orchestra Prom on HDD including Sorcerer's Apprentice and Julian Anderson's Fanfare. Liz the photographer joined us at the BBC and claimed there was smoke rising at the Prom of Scriabin Symphony No. 1. She was wondering about going to the Prom of Hansel and Gretel and had borrowed the CD from the library. We are going to Somserset House tomorrow for the relay from Glyndebourne! Hope it doesn't rain!

Wed 18th a lie-in and to osteopath Imogen who treated my hamstring.I need to do tai chi and exercises before swimming! Then got trains to see Ciarán for an hour. He had a cold and sniffles and not too happy. On overground to Islington for the recording of the Merlin soundtrack. We were able to watch the film and worked well until 10 p.m. Rob Lane had composed some of the music at 3 p.m. that day! He kept the Destiny theme until last so when he said we might not do it we all agreed to do it! It was certainly the best bit! Home by 11 p.m. but tired. Liz had gone to Birmingham having got Dad's book copied and it will be bound there. Thursday Scherezade and Tchaikovsky's 2nd symphony from Proms. Friday staff meeting and started to sort out basement stuff. Philharmonia orchestra prom on BBC4 with Part, Ravel and Scriabin. Finished reading "A thousand splendid suns" a truly great book and started "Wolf Hall".

Monday swam 38 and Tuesday 36 - John was there. Slow lane very crowded. Heard end of Scriabin symphony No. 1 from Prom. Novelists in their own words with interesting archive footage but fell asleep. Tuesday 17th had to sort out rubbish bins all wet and flies. New cleaning contract not working well and tea towels and hand towels not being cleaned any more! Had staff meeting. Left at 2.30 and to Tate Modern to see Gilpin's slides in Exposed (rather sad and bitteer sweet images) and Francis Alys's fascinating films. To National portrait gallery to see BP portrait award - not happy with first prize winner picture of her dead mother. The whole question of intrusion into privacy is raised by these artists although her mother did give permission. To Hinde St church for Merlin rehearsal with Rob Lane the composer who is very unassuming. Shostakovich 5th from the proms and Arvo Part St John Passion. Programme about man who tried to swim the Amazon.

Swam 38 so good to be back! Busy at work. To chorus to rehearse for Merlin recording. Heard end of Roussel Symphony in G minor from Prom and Daphnis and Chloe suite no. 2. Friday Liz went to Louise's so she could go to baby opera on Saturday morning. Prom on TV featured Bruch voilin concerto. Saturday 14th to Cadogan Hall for Bach day Brandenburgs but found it sold out so returned home to listen. To Vespers and Mass for Assumption - no organ or cantor! Missed Bach organ prom but enjoyed the Bach orchestral arrangements on BBC2 conducted by Andrew Litton. Sunday Dennis had arrived late Saturday. To Coulsdon and hymns to Mary - I missed off last verse of one! David was there. Quick coffee and then train from Norwood Junction to London Bridge. Had time to read the play and Southwark cathedral sale where I got a leather credit card holder for £2.50. Dennis was late for the play at the Globe having been to see Ciarán. Excellent production of King Henry IV part 1 even funnier than Part...

At Coulsdon found pedals were now working again and Vickie was back from sabbatical. I could not find Dad's march so played "Lullaby for Claire" instead and Karg-Elert Nun danket to mark our wedding anniversary. Unpacked. Listened to Poulenc's Figure Humaine with the score from the BBC chorus prom and Mozart Piano concerto 17 with score, Parry's fine Elegy for Brahms and Brahms Symphony No.4 conducted by Andrew Davis. I had planned to go to the proms but too much to do at home. Monday back to work and lots of emails plus a new children's librarian and replacement for maternity leave cover so that's good. I went to St Edmund's Beckenham to play for the 1 p.m. wedding and the 4 friends sang beautifully and all went well. Fr Ashley Beck celebrated. The Prom featured Harold in Italy by Berlioz. Tuesday to Age concern active days in Tooting and some useful info about local history groups. The reading group enjoyed Trollope's "The way we live now...

Communion service led by Colin and Beryl in charismatic style - peace took ages and choruses. Nout and wife left party to go to Holland. A lovely drive down the Mosel valley from Koblenz to Cotten where we went on the land train tour which made up for not getting on the Koblenz one yesterday! White wine sample and delicious iced chocolate at cafe. Stained glass by Graham Jones in parish church.To Trabach where church had been extended. Buddha museum too expensive but clearly a fantastic collection. A nice park and had ice cream.Stopped to sample soem Mosel white wine. Bought wine jelly for Louise. After dinner had a sauna at hotel. Saturday last day of our wonderful holiday. We left at 10 and had lunch opposite the Loreley and visited Frankfurt cathedral and had coffee at the Modern art museum cafe. Flew out from Frankfurt at 8.30 and landed on time. Unfortunately did not ring Purple parking when we landed so had to wait for car but we were still home by 11 p.m. so it was worth it. Tru...

Left 9.15 after good breakfast. To Mainz where the boat was late! A lovely cruise in sunny weather to Rudesheim where we stayed on the main street next to railway and river - we were on back of hotel. Siegfried's mechanical music museum had an amazing collection - player pianos, orchestrions. We bought a toy for Ciarán. Had amaretto ice and macchiato in nice cafe near hotel. After dinner went to see the street with oompah bands but decided to hit the hay! Thursday August 5th a lovely KD cruise to Koblenz passing the Loreley. Started on top but it became very windy so moved to back downstairs and had an enormous salad. Koblenz a building site and Hotel Mercure not that convenient.

It being our 36th wedding anniversary on August 3rd I had gone to some trouble to get some red roses delivered on the night before. Had to change time of delivery as we were leaving earlier - our excellent driver Jorg had again made an excellent suggestion of going on the Romantic road which eventually goes to Wurzburg. Long drive to Rottingen - ate salad outside and lovely dark beer, visited churches and amazing Christmas shop, bought Schneeballs. Liz very unimpressed that the cathedral expected us to pay! Nice little town, saw the drinkers at windows - automated models on the hour. To Heidelburg - rain. Good meal and crazy waiter - eventually got the wheat beer "Wildbier". Hotel lent a vase for flowers - hotel right on the river.