The best way to measure the success of the Lake District Holiday was to experience the warmth of different greetings as friends were reunited to view photos and share stories for the reunion evening. Great friendships had been formed amidst the back- drop of some splendid scenery and some very enjoyable activities.
On our penultimate day, we crossed the lake at Derwent Water and saw a fabulous rainbow. It seemed a symbolic emblem for the trip. A rainbow signifies the presence of both sunshine and rain (we also had snow on the mountain tops). For many a rainbow is also the reminder that God keeps His promises and a symbol of peace. Despite the varied weather patterns the trip involved much laughter and many new experiences.
As we drove around the corner towards the Youth Hostel on the first day, there was a sharp intake of breath. This was the sound of thirty nine world citizens from fourteen different countries, simultaneously amazed by the view: majestic, snowy peaks above the still waters of the lakes, bathed in colourful rays of sunshine. It was enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat.
Every day the students were treated to a traditional cooked breakfast: sausages, bacon, eggs, toast, cereal, fruit, yoghurt, tea, coffee and orange juice. In the evenings the portions were equally as generous.
The activities ranged from snow ball fights to gentle journeys on steam trains, river cruises and rowing to hill walking and visiting museums and an aquarium . In the evening there were a wonderful sing-songs provided by our very own “Wild Rover” Tony Carey whilst Jo Jo frequently entertained us with her exquisite voice and unusual Chinese songs. As there had not been many extreme sports, Hannah decided that mud sliding was also to be an essential part of the itinerary.
Just like Wordsworth, we hope that as you return to the library and to everyday tasks, you might make time to see a glimpse of the beautiful scenery that we experienced on the trip on your “inward eye” and to remember the smiles of new friendships formed:
For oft, when on my couch I lie,
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.
