31st December - Second Day of New Year Weekend away
I managed to get up just in time for breakfast this morning. I found the appetite to eat sausage and beans even though I'm not a big fan of cooked breakfast. We then made our way into the conference room ready for our morning service. Several people gave testimonies of what God had done for them in 2007 some of which were very moving. We were then asked to write down our prayers on post-it notes and stick them on three boards - one for prayers for self,one for prayers for family and friends and one for prayers for the world. I found this much less intimidating than praying in groups.
After the meeting we shared a simple lunch of bread, cheese, sliced meats and salad.
We then set off for the village of Trevor which was the starting point of our afternoon walk. Our walk took us along the canal and then across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct which was scary as it had a sheer drop on the far side. I was glad to get to the other side. After the walk we went for a drink in the pub before returning to the centre where Phil had been toasting crumpets for us.
We then started geting ready for the evening party. We met in the foyer - there was a wonderful array of outfits on show - and travelled to the Lord Moreton by car. When we arrived at the place we were shown to our tables. We were then invited to go up for food. There was a wondeful selection of food on offer - sliced meats, salmon prawns and a good selection of salads. The selection of desserts was even better - I had some Dime bar cheesecake and white chocolate cheesecake. The tables were then cleared and moved to reveal the dance floor. The evening started off with a disco and then the band came onto the stage. They played quite a few 80's rock songs and were quite good. After the band had been on for an hour the disco started again. For the last hour of 2007 the band returned to play 70's rock songs complete with costumes. I particularly enjoyed the Queen tribute. As midnight drew near we all rushed onto the dance floor for the countdown. At midnight there was much hugging and cheering and letting off of giant party poppers. I made a point of going over to Phil to wish him a Happy New year as I know he's not a fan of discos. The party went on to 1.30am and then we all went back to the hall. I was shattered so I went straight to bed even though I knew others were staying up. I think this was our best NY party to date - it was an excellent idea to go to the hotel.