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| Renewed thanks for all the care taken and good things provided during my stay. It was really enjoyable and I managed to deplete at least some of the books that have been piling up in the study. |
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... Wonderful. My third visit and God-willing not my last! Lovely room, and nice and warm too. Fantastic meals. Invigorating walks around the lanes. Good company. Felt totally spoiled. Many thanks to all the team. |
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... Comfortable, nicely appointed surroundings. Warm (very welcome in January), excellent food and a quietly efficient, caring atmosphere. Thank you for the en-suite bedroom - it was much appreciated.
We would have found our stay more enjoyable if ... the hills had been flatter! - oldies like us from the flatlands of Lincolnshire had forgotten quite what Devonshire is like - but hardly your fault! |
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... it was an opportunity to relax in peaceful countryside with hosts who are sensitive to the needs of the guests.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I had had an en suite room. I expected the new year break to be a little more organised, perhaps having a social activity at the beginning which would have helped people get to know each other - but I realise that would not have suited everybody and it's difficult to suit everyone. |
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... The warmest and best fed Retreat House I have been to. Service was discreet and caring and 'beyond the call of duty'. A plumbing fault was corrected within hours. Special diet for a coeliac was brilliant.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the site was not so far off the beaten track - road is terrible! I came hoping for walks, but as I can't manage hills any longer, hopes were dashed. |
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| ... Gave me time to relax, walk and just be me for a few days. Lovely grub and fun company. Well done as always. |
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Hillary - thank you for the wonderful food and especially the birthday cake!
Sarah - thank you for your sensitive care and support.
Sue and Carl - thank you for all you do and are.
Jan - Get well soon! and thank you for suggesting this is a good time to come here. |
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... Finding myself alone for new year following bereavement I was accepted without questions. There is no pressure to do anything, but plenty to occupy oneself with. Having booked only 9 days before the event started, I sort of thought I might have been an "extra" but no, I was just a part like everyone else. A perfect solution for me - thank you.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... no real comments - may be en suite would have been nice but - it was very much the right place for me at a vulnerable time and nothing troubled me about the facilities. |
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| ... I was very tired and run down on arrival, but received nothing but kindness and hospitality. I was delighted with my warm, spacious room in the Pound House, the wonderful home-cooked foods and bowled over by the cosy, well-stocked library, well stocked with not only books but CD's, DVD's, games - so much variety. |
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... It is still the only place I feel safe to visit alone and know that my problems are understood. It is wonderful that there are no expectations on us, other than to eat! Worship was wonderful and I was able to receive Holy Communion for the first time since May; a real blessing. The comfort, the prayer, the sensitivity of all the community have made this a special time. Thank you for the birthday cake - fancy thinking I might enjoy a chocolate one! The few minutes of Sarah's care, time and prayer, I'm sure made a lot of difference to New Year's Eve and Day, otherwise I might well have run away!
I would have found my stay more useful/enjoyable/helpful if ... there had been fewer people! or at least fewer who seemed to be regulars and knew each other, but that is really my problem as I cannot cope with larger numbers of people - and this seemed large to me - or a lot of noisy chat. |
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... I felt very looked after - staying in the Pig Pen was very cosy. I liked the freedom of not needing to lock the door, and of having the run of the estate. I very much liked and appreciated the pig theme being carried through from mugs and paintings to the delightful cuddly pig toy. Thank you.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... One suggestion is to have a "quiet table", especially at breakfast, for people who prefer not to talk at a meal time. Also the long table does seem a bit "institutional" - perhaps you could 'experiment' by having separate smaller tables, which might even be easier for the volunteers serving food. Perhaps also you might consider using Ecover products, in the interests of looking after the environment and avoiding using chemicals. |
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... As usual, great hospitality, calm atmosphere, excellent company and a wonderful rest.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... Either I am very unfit, or the word 'gentle' needs removing from the walk round Doddiscombsleigh! |
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... It was my second visit, and like the year before, I found peace, kindness, hot water, warm rooms, not to mention the fabulous food. Someone to talk to, or quietness just as one pleased. Not forgetting the use of the wellies.
I would have found my stay more enjoyable if ... the lady with the flu had stayed at home. Should she appear next year, may I suggest isolation or cancellation. Today, the 14th, I have just about come back to life. I wonder how many others she infected? |
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| ... It was nice to relax after the advent/Christmas business. Appreciate the accepting ambience and the hard work of the community, staff and volunteers. Thank you for catering for my diet. Thank you for sending the recipes. |
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~ We stayed in the Pig Pens
~ We felt cared for
~ We were well fed, warm and comfortable
~ We had space to do our own thing |
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... Fantastic. Total peace and quiet. No pressure to be 'sociable'. Nobody talking at you. Just like defragging a computer. Head back together again - well for a while! Thanks.
I would have found my stay more enjoyable if ... there was more salmon pie! |
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| ... The Pig Pen was delightful, such a comfortable bed that I scrabbled underneath to find out the maker's name on the mattress! It was nice to have a little more space, and our own kettle with the usual comprehensive range of hot drinks. When the weather was iffy, I still enjoyed sitting in the window, watching the countryside changing and being amazed at all the birds coming to the bird feeder. Food was a delicious as ever - many thanks to the team who managed to produce it, even though shorthanded. I enjoyed the New Year Eucharist and felt it was a very fitting beginning to the New Year. I find the chapel beautiful and it has a holy atmosphere, quite amazing for such a new building. |
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... The reception was friendly but not intrusive, the accommodation in a Pig Pen was wonderful, also the patio and view helped a restful and interesting space for our busy lives. Thank you.
We would have found our stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if ... we could have had a Eucharistic service at some point during our stay. |
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... It provided space, warmth, safe environment, food, cosy chairs just when I needed it. The peace was something I was looking for but sometimes stopping suddenly can be a problem too. Sheldon was good though and I miss it now. Hopefully I will come again sometime.
I would have found my stay at Sheldon more useful if ... I had had more chance to chat idly with the community. I could have had a massage … |
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| ... Space, quiet, wonderful weather and autumn colours, morning prayers, wonderful food. |
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... From the moment I arrived I felt enfolded in love, care and empathy. There was space to be, space to worship, wonderful food and a feeling of safety. I greatly appreciated the care of community, volunteers and those in reception, all given without being overdone. The Jacuzzi and massage were great. Reading Week is, for me, the perfect event at Sheldon.
I would have found my stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if … the absolute pinnacle would have been to celebrate Holy Communion at the end. |
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... It was just the balance of solitude and company that I needed. For me it worked perfectly and good food and general tlc was very welcome. The one-to-one sessions with Carl were very helpful. Thank you for being there. |
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... The simple framework of worship, and social meeting at mealtimes and at the bar, with the space to read, walk and relax. I especially enjoyed staying in a new Pig Pen.
I would have found my stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if ... there had been a eucharist at some point during the week. |
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| ... If I ever write another book I will come and finish it with you at Sheldon as I did with my first. (Indeed I got the idea for a second book during a walk round the fields.) |
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... It provided a different setting/venue to make a private Retreat. The facilities are comfortable; the environment and countryside perfect with vast areas for good walks; the hospitality and welcome are genuine; good shop; the food is sumptuous and plentiful – and a well-stocked bar; the chapel is simple and warm, helpful as a place to pray and meditate, aided by the icons and candles. Never before in 40 years have I been on such a Retreat somewhere that even a Jacuzzi and massage are provided – also most helpful and relaxing. Good library. … My last Retreat while in full-time ministry, so it was special, and a discovery just before it was too late! |
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... You looked after me so well. Food fantastic as always. Company convivial. Time to be quiet and to chat. The massage sorted out my pains and stiff neck. You wouldn't let me talk shop. The bed was comfy. The water was hot. I loved the owls at night. Thank you for the flowers on my desk. I thank God for you.
I would have found my stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if ... I could have stayed longer. |
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... It was a peaceful break, refreshing, revitalising by being able to walk with and talk with God - in fellowship with quiet, peaceful souls who seemed to understand the need for reflection. The food was excellent and I felt very tempted (I was trying to detox this week - Bad timing!!) Thank you very much - God blessings to you all.
I would have found my stay more enjoyable if ... the weather was better. |
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| ~ Reading week and two sessions with Carl - Good. Comfortable with plenty of space. Free from pressure. Relaxed and undemanding worship. Food and environment excellent. |
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... The whole place radiates peace and welcome. It was undemanding and refreshing. The Lodge was a unique haven of warmth (very warm at times!) and comfort. The kitchen was well stocked and the meals were all lovely.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the two single beds pushed together were not ideal as there was a tendency to fall down the middle if you rolled over. Maybe you could get mattresses that zipped together or beds that connected in some way, as I recognise the advantage of being able to alter twin or double in the same lodge. |
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| ... Thank you so much for sharing your home with us. The kindness and hospitality we have experienced from all the hosts at Sheldon has been wonderful. We have really enjoyed ourselves here and amazingly been able to switch off which is something we find very hard to do. This place truly is a slice of heaven. Our thanks go to all of the team who have made our stay so 'perfect'. We pray for the continued growth and blossoming of this unique ministry. May God renew all involved for the year ahead. With many thanks ... |
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~ wonderfully peaceful setting
~ comfortable room
~ great food
~ caring people
We would have found our stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...
~ we were looking forward to a candlelit midnight Holy Communion, but the lights were blazing!
~ we had a second chair in the double room. |
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~ relaxing ambience
~ good food and well organised catering
~ comfortable surroundings to "wind-down" in
Many thanks to all concerned for their efforts. |
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~ accommodation and ambience were excellent
~ food ideal for me - thank you so much for your gluten-free vegetarian provision for me
~end/beginning of the year Eucharist a very good means of marking the 'threshold' |
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| ... I catered for five over the Christmas period (not bad after long term illness). I had a difficult experience to face - this time of recuperation was the greatest. |
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.... I could rest, walk, and enjoy good food without anyone attempting to organise me or being intrusive about my well being. The availability of local walks and the good information about them is particularly valuable.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I could have mastered the use of the tin opener! |
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... I had space and time to please myself - enjoying some reading, though some of it challenging; also walking and indulging in the good food - all very relaxing. Good company too, when I felt like it.
I would have found my stay more useful/enjoyable/helpful if ... (I sort of feel concerned about the power consumption of so much outside lighting through the night - I suppose it's all tied up with health and safety...) |
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| ... it was very relaxing - the food was very good - the Pig Pen very good, a wonderful improvement on the old chalets. For me, it was good to be - not staying with family (though that was good) and nothing expected of me except to say whether or not I would be out for meals. |
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... Time to relax in easy accommodation. Tamworth caters for all my physical problems at the moment, and lovely for my husband to join me and share. It was lovely to have a free programme - just enough structure - a different 'rate' than the 'Journalling'. I loved compline and being in the chapel. The food was delicious - I wrote large detail about various likes and dislikes. At my first visit, as now, I am poorly. The attention was just right - little touches made a big difference. I am looking forward to returning in February.
We would have found our stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... having been before, I knew the score. We arrived on 31st December, so missed out on introductions which meant we felt a bit awkward at meal times. The leaflet was a bit confusing. We weren't sure where we were banished, and then felt guilty (DIY breakfast leaflet - it would have been helpful if the plan was clearer). |
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... excellent and attractive fittings and furnishings in the Pig Pen (Berkshire). Excellent, attractive and plentiful food.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... How about hi-wi wireless connection (paying for the key, of course) to obtain e-mail and internet etc. |
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| ... I had time to read without distractions in pleasant surroundings and among kindred spirits. The hospitality was gracious and generous and all I had to remember was to be on time for meals. Worship was unhurried and unfussy and helped me to do what I was here to do. |
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... It is so restful. The community is so hospitable. The worship bright and digestable. The food delightful. The rooms superbly comfortable. The library interesting. The walks variable, challenging and easy to suit your needs. The weather was even kind some of the time. The Quiet Day was also very helpful, well organised, well conducted, if a little bit crammed into a short space of time. One of the very interesting aspects of Sheldon is that the Eucharist is not celebrated at the drop of a hat, it has no distinct or acquired musical tradition. It is a 'meeting place' where people can meet with God in very earthy and unreligious things. I hope you do not take offence at that - but surely the important thing about a place like Sheldon is is meeting with God?
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the only thing that ever causes me worry about Sheldon is finding my way there in the dark (or the light for that matter). This is a good thing on the whole, as I was never tempted to wander too far in case I could not find my way back. I loved everything and I look forward to an excuse to visit you again! |
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~ the peace and quiet and silent breakfasts
~ the comfortable, warm and welcoming accommodation
~ the good food
~ the "no fuss" attentiveness
~ such a good idea to have a battery powered light for when there's a power cut.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...
The heat had gone off at night as advertised (Tamworth Pig Pen) [Webeditor: we didn't realise it had been wired up wrong - now remedied!]. A reading lamp would have been very useful. But it has been a lovely few days. Thanks very much. |
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... I found my stay at Sheldon helpful/useful because from the moment I arrived to the time I left I experienced gracious hospitality and warmth. You modelled a spirit of Christ and I was greatly encouraged and strengthened. I also appreciated the 'unbusy' pace and did a lot of reading and reflecting. I enjoyed the many walks through the countryside even though one had to time them between the rains. The room was small, but very comfortable. The provisions of tea and cookies in various places were appreciated. The facilities were well kept and tidy. Kudos to all who go the extra mile to make this happen. Meals and fellowship were a highlight and it was nice to interact with others at the Fat Pigeon, at meal time and after meals. WE may have crossed the boundary of "no shop talk" once or twice, but your gentle way of reminding us was in the spirit of what was intended. I discovered it is hard to shut down one segment of one's life and I thank you for not being too hard on rule breakers. Morning and evening prayers set a spiritual rhythm for my time there.
I would have found the stay at Sheldon even more comfortable if additional towels were provided during the week. The damp weather kept towels from adequately drying. I would also encourage you to provide more specific instructions for those who are coming via train and bus... [webeditor: instructions amended as advised] ...I really enjoyed using public transportation and for the sake of the environment would encourage others to do so as well.
Thank you for the gift of your ministry to me at this time in my life. |
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| ... It was everything I needed at the right time - space to read, think, pray and rest - not particularly in that order! and no pressure. The accommodation was perfect for my needs, especially the walk-in shower. |
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~ the staff were friendly, but at the same time low key, unobtrusive.
~ the accommodation was very comfortable.
~ the library has an excellent selection of books.
~ my dietary needs were met without making me feel 'difficult'. A big thank you to the kitchen staff for meeting those needs and for giving helpful advice for places to visit.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the weather had been drier! There was nothing that the Sheldon community could have done to make my stay more enjoyable. Thank you for a wonderful experience. |
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... There is no pressure; we are cared for generously; worship is provided for us; the food is good, wholesome and plentiful. It is a place apart. Thank you and God bless your ministry.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I was able to make a hot drink in the night/ early hours without leaving my room. |
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... It was just like coming home. The welcome was 100% and unconditional. I felt exhausted when I arrived, but knew from previous experience that I would be given the space to relax and recharge my batteries. Everything you want or need is provided - but no-one expects anything of you. Perfect!
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... It's very difficult to think of anything. The only small suggestion I could make is that the reading light in bedroom could be of slightly higher wattage. |
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... I was able to use the time in my own way - there were plenty of quiet, comfortable places in which to read and good local walks to do. I enjoyed being able to chat over meals and being quiet at other times - I loved the old chapel!
I would have found my stay more comfortable if ... there had been a few 'poofs' or footstools, as I like to sit with my feet up. |
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| Thank you so much for the Reading Week, the care and provision you made for us and the worship you led for us. It was lovely to be with you all and at Sheldon again, wonderful to have no imposed responsibilities and the space for awareness. |
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... It has been a lovely stay and the food delicious. The Pig Pens are delightful. Thank you to everyone.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if .... there had been a loop system in the chapel and a microphone in the dining room when notices were being given out. Perhaps some indication should be given in the general notice so that the deaf or partially deaf would know that there is no help available for them. [webeditor: we certainly do intend there to be help available for deaf guests - our apologies for obviously having failed on this occasion.] |
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| ... Just to thank you for a very refreshing Quiet Week last week - faultless hospitality and a wonderful opportunity to be renewed. I appreciated it very much indeed... |
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| ... it gave opportunities for "time out", for reading and for prayer with no distractions. It was easy to maintain silence for longer than prescribed time. I feel almost pampered by unobtrusive care of the staff and volunteers. Wonderful meals; excellent library. Being able to make use of locality to walk (following very good instructions in walks book) has been a pleasure. Quiet Day - proved an unexpected bonus. Thank you all for your warm welcome. l look forward to my next visit!... |
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... High standard throughout. Good food. Good unobtrusive atmosphere. Varied local walking, including grounds.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... a nearer tea making point for upstairs in Pound House.
...
Requirement to wear swimming costume in private jacuzzi excessive, particularly as bubbles inflate some outfits! |
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~ unfussy, but warm hospitality
~ excellent food - especially the soups
~ simple worship
~ the chapel has been specifically helpful - it's something about the oak frames and the lighting
~ very nice quince vodka!
... I sense a potential hazard to the site as you leave the Long Barn; there's a bit of a drop. [Webeditor: only while building works are in progress - this will be relandscaped shortly] |
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... We were able to go on some good walks. We enjoyed chatting with people in the Fat Pigeon before dinner and would have appreciated more time to do this. We did have 'space' to be able to talk - (we both work and time to talk is precious).
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...we had been able to stay in one of the lodges, as being a couple we had little room in the bedroom and we did not want to be silent between ourselves. [Webeditor: sorry - Lodges are not available for programme events - they are run completely separately.] We would have appreciated a 'view' so that when we were in our room we could have sat with a book and looked out at the grounds/countryside. The Fat Pigeon is a comfortable room and it was a pity it couldn't have been available to sit in more.
...I very much enjoyed my massage - the first one I've ever had!
I found my talk one-to-one with Sarah only moderately useful and did not feel it had any clear guidelines for the future emerging. I guess this is one of those areas I shall have to sort out for myself.....I found that too many spoken words were required in compline during the silent time... |
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~ the community and helpers dedicated themselves to a ministry of service in which guests were affirmed,valued and cared for warmly. We felt like friends - not a burden.
~ the programme was a good balance of quiet and companionship.
~ the introductory guide and explanation of house rules set clear boundaries including area kept silent during the times conversation was permitted elsewhere.
~ the quality, comfort, space, and attention to detail of the surroundings (even to fresh flowers in the bedroom) encouraged one to relax and be refreshed.
~ the library contains a good cross-section of books including recent publications - much appreciated.
~ I've been warm and well-fed! |
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... I need time to recover/reappraise/regenerate. Thanks to blissful silence/long muddy walks - spotting deer in the woods/a massage and lots of extra sleep, I feel I have done just that. Thank you all.
P.S. Forgot to say - loved reading, reading, more reading! |
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| ... As usual, just the right mix of hospitality and space. |
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| ... Very relaxed, laid back, friendly. A lovely few days with lovely company, but enough opportunity to be on my own. Thank you - and every blessing for 2006. |
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... A break at just the right time, following Christmas. Comfortable accommodation. Good food. Relaxed atmosphere. Devon scenery. Good walking (even if some good Devon mud!). Warm welcome from the community members.
It was a shame the New Year's Communion was a totally run-of-the-mill service with no use of seasonal material that might have given opportunity to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the new. Plain is fine, but plain and merely routine isn't.
I felt the "no shop talk" rule was a bit heavy, and (if we had all stuck to it) might have limited conversation to the weather and other inconsequentials. |
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... I found time to be myself to reflect, to pray and to think. I also found friendship with all those who shared the 4 days with me. Time to talk and to laugh. Time to celebrate and at midnight to rededicate myself to God's work in the communion service. A wonderful experience facilitated by the godly and caring staff. Jacuzzi and Jan's massage highly recommended. Food good also, as is the service.
I would have found my stay more useful/helpful if ... I could have got a mobile signal to wish my children Happy New Year properly. |
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... of the lovely peaceful environment and very comfortable accommodation. The food has been very good. I enjoyed the freedom to read or walk or explore further afield. The staff and volunteers worked hard behind the scenes to make everything run smoothly. We are very pleased to have visited Sheldon. Thank you.
I would have found my stay more helpful/enjoyable if .... it had been possible to have a "listening ear" (in confidence). I wasn't aware that this was available on the "Reading Week". [Webeditor: only available by prior arrangement on this sort of week or Linhay Lodges. Included automatically on 12,000s]. On a mundane note - some custard would have been good on some of the puddings! |
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| ... I was made to feel really welcome and yet given all the space I needed. The surroundings are beautiful which was great for walks. The buildings very comfortable which made it easy to relax. The food delicious which has meant I'll go home heavier. But most importantly the fragrance of Jesus is here which meant drawing near to him which meant I was hugely blessed. |
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| ... Everything we needed was provided. We were made very welcome but left to our own devices. This meant that there was ample opportunity to get on with what I had come to do - reading and resting - without interruption. |
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~ A wonderfully peaceful and relaxing place - with good company at mealtimes etc.
~ The food was excellent - tasty and nourishing wonderfully creative chutneys etc!
~ The bed was comfortable and room warm (chalets)
~ The walks around Sheldon are great too
~ I am glad to have had a chance to discover more of the merits of this centre and the aims to support clergy and their families.
I would have found my stay more helpful/enjoyable etc if ....
~ A small point, which is shortly to be irrelevant because of rebuilding, is that the chalets are harder to keep clean as they open straight onto the outside. Stuff gets walked in, however careful you are. I did borrow a hoover once, but it wasn't easy to keep the floor of the room (also a bedroom) as clean as we would have liked. |
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...You cared for me in my grieving by -
~ giving me space
~ feeding me delicious meals
~ not letting me help
~ your gentle smiles and patience
~ the silence
~ giving me a bath, not a shower
~ the room being warm and the water hot
~ the whole site being beautifully well kept
~ massage
~ the interesting library |
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| ... A blessing to be surrounded by peace and beauty |
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~ of the unobtrusive love and care
~ the freedom to join in or opt out of the organised activities
~ the
peace and quiet and ability to just "chill out"
~ visiting local churches and learning about their history, which we wouldn't have done if we were visiting the area on our own.
My stay might have been more enjoyable if ,,,
~ more walks over the moors themselves
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| ... of the gentle but warm welcome in all aspects - people (staff), rooms, food, and Sheldon itself - wow! Staying in the Linhay Lodge was wonderful - a real bonus. The walks were good, churches fascinating, guides' helpful. More of Dartmoor itself perhaps? |
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... is situated in such a lovely part of the country. We were given excellent meals and very comfortable rooms.
My stay might have been more helpful/enjoyable if...the visits to churches etc had been related to some dominant themes of Christian history and to each other. For instance, Ashton and Doddiscombsleigh demonstrated,,,,,[sorry illegible handwriting] |
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... Enjoyable because it was a small group, so got to know everyone. The food and accommodation was fantastic. The staff very approachable and friendly. It was great to have a bar, jacuzzi, and patio to sit outside.
My stay might have been more helpful/enjoyable if.... the jacuzzi had been available in pm on return from the walks when one is tired and stiff. Same re massage. Not a big deal, but I would have preferred all walks on Dartmoor. I did enjoy the local walks but wanted to do more on Dartmoor. It might be helpful to tell people about not putting main light on in bathroom (which activates fan) during the night. I suspect some did not read notice on door. |
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... I live alone, and the company was friendly and stimulating - both the guests and the community. The walking was (mostly) within my now limited endurance. The countryside is beautiful and the weather matched it. I made a new friend. The food was appetising and nutritious. The packed lunches were generous. Every effort was made to give us what we personally preferred, in terms of 'hotel' facilities, diet etc - better than most starred hotels.
My stay might have been more helpful/enjoyable if ... guests had been reminded that in the Pound House it is necessary to use the shaver light at night. (I don't know who the sinner/s were). |
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... Inspirational people, buildings, countryside. Library outstanding eclectic collection. Massage and spa brilliant. The staff support is understated and very professional, excellent volunteers.
My stay might have been more enjoyable if..... the mattress was firmer on our bed and if I didn't feel I had to be civil to people at the breakfast table. |
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... It was a peaceful and restful environment in which to relax, read, enjoy the company of others and a beautiful part of God's world. The staff are superb. It was a delight to see the way they live and work.
My stay might have been more enjoyable if ..... I think I would have enjoyed a bath to relax in, but this was accommodated alternatively by having the jacuzzi available, which was wonderful! Thanks for your hospitality. |
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| ... It has such a wonderful sense of peace. You are in a warm and caring place but are able to have space to be and think. Meals delicious!! Evening prayer where I was able to go and pray in a way I have not been able to do for some time. I loved the poems that Hilary used and her wonderful gentle way. Thank you so much. It is lovely to worship as just yourself without expectation.....It is perfect - the whole community is doing such an important job and is a wonderful witness and example. |
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| ... There has been the quality of space that we have needed at this time. The lightness of touch in the care you have provided for us during this week has been just right. We are very grateful for this. We have booked to come again in August and we are greatly looking forward to this time with you all. |
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| ... Thank you all so much for your care over the last few days - we had a very relaxing and refreshing time at Sheldon. We really appreciate your sharing your many gifts with us. We plan to come again! (hopefully sooner rather than later!) |
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... I was given the freedom to withdraw or participate with meals. The food has been extremely healthy and just what I like. It has been wonderful to have my dietary needs catered for without making me feel awkward or a nuisance - so thank you very much for that. The surroundings are idyllic and our accommodation was just right for us as a family and very comfortably warm. I have enjoyed having a bath in the chalet to use instead of a shower. I have felt very cared for but not in an overpowering or uncomfortable way. It has been just great to just be me and to have no expectations or demands made of me.
I hope the new development comes up to expectations. Thank you so much - I would love to come again. |
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...It was quiet and relaxed.
There weren't crowds of people around.
We saw deer down in the copse.
Staff were very caring.
We had access to the Long Barn TV.
My stay might have ben more helpful/enjoyable if .... somebody magically washed my car (Simon ?!). The weather forecast posted on board in dining room. Football results posted on board in dining room. |
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... the accommodation, hospitality and surroundings provided for a 'quiet week'. I wasn't particularly stressed when I arrived and so able to reflect and take advantage of the week which was enormously, personally productive. It was great not to have a breakfast time! Thank you for your ministry and may God continue to bless your work.
One comment - the Quiet Week may have been better attended by clergy if it had been the week before. Missing Ash Wednesday in the parish was quite difficult. |
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... it gave me SPACE
Time to be me
Time to sleep/crash
Time to think/pray/listen
Time to re-evaluate my position at home
My stay might have been more helpful/productive if .... I had the opportunity of a one to one. I was aware that it is the policy not to burden others who are staying with my situation. I do understand that you get busy in all sorts of ways and perhaps it was right that the answer was 'No' as it meant I had to go off and unburden myself with a walk and 'howl', a prayer and a listen. I have to say that at the time I felt rejected, but I have come through it and I will be back.[WebEd: our apologies - 1:1 time is guaranteed if booked in advance, but we can't always fit in appointments at short notice] |
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... of the peace and beauty of the surroundings - the undemanding structure of the programme which included a balance between opportunity for interaction and times of release from having to speak. The warmth and hospitality of the staff was also appreciated and the food was fabulous.
My stay might have been more helpful/enjoyable/productive if .... I hadn't had to do quite so much battle against my chalet accommodation. Of course, it was adequate and the view was marvellous, but the cold damp feeling of the walls and floor, the "mobile" bed and the starkness of the room made it not easy to relax into in private. I also felt a little isolated from my fellow retreatants, but as I arrived later in the week, didn't feel I could say anything. This did not spoil the week however. [WebEd: See Pig Pens for improvements now made] |
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| ... I enjoyed the peace, loving atmosphere and the views, of course. The luxury of jacuzzi/massage really helped me relax and feel better about myself. The time aside and with one to one help has produced a focus and different understanding. This is a special place and I am grateful for the opportunity just to sink into its welcoming arms and "be". Thank you all. |
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... of the high level of care for the welfare of all the visitors. I also enjoyed the jacuzzi.
My stay might have been more helpful/enjoyable if ....... it had been possible to join with others to go on local walks or other trips. This could be arranged by the guests themselves if a list is put up with trips in one column and the names of anyone wanting to go in the next column. Then anyone wanting to go on a trip can add their trip and name to the list and anyone wanting to share that could contact that person. This would save people being put under pressure to do things they don't want to do but it would allow people to do things together if they want to. |
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| ... A preliminary thank you to you all (I will put a letter in the post next week). I had a very good journey home...but I am trying to keep that precious 'Sheldon feeling' with me for as long as I can. Thank you, all of you. |
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| ... Just to say we had a safe and pleasant journey home. We would like to say thank you to all for the lovely four days we spent at Sheldon and for your superb care and hospitality. I hope 2005 is a happy and blessed year for the community. See you in August. |
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... Jan's massage treatment was so renewing; far in excess of anything I could have imagined, or anticipated. I arrived extremely tired and the warm, friendly, not intrusive ambience, and the peace completely revived me. This and the services of compline have given me a wonderful start for 2005. Thank you all.
... Would you consider some appropriate, background music for the few minutes prior to compline. |
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... of the wonderful relaxed atmosphere, the friendliness of the community members, the comfort, the wonderful food, in fact everything. To round it all off, the evening compline was a perfect end.
... You can't improve on perfection! |
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| ... I found it a very comfortable place to stay and felt that the staff genuinely cared about us. This was reflected in the standard of the catering and comfortable nature of the public rooms. The grounds and setting are beautiful and this added to the pleasure of my stay. The word 'jacuzzi' is now etched on my brain! |
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... The food was excellent - vegetarian menu very good. Staff and volunteers were welcoming and helpful, friendly without being intrusive. It was good to eat together.
The setting is beautiful and the whole atmosphere relaxing. I really felt looked after.
I loved the jacuzzi. Would certainly make time for a massage next time!
I was grateful for the house rule on not ministering to others - it was very freeing.
Enjoyed the New Year Eucharist very much. |
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| ... yet again, I felt cared for and was able to relax, think and pray in an uncluttered environment. Thank you for providing this time and space. I am among friends! |
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| ... My fifth stay and am never disappointed. It has been restful, very comfortable and gave me the opportunity to think and pray and feel refreshed. The community have a real gift of hospitality. I loved the massage and jacuzzi. |
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| ... There was a very good group who shared a lot together, but was also allowed space to be quiet. Good also to see a few familiar faces. |
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... I was given the space and time to just be, but had the pleasure of company at mealtimes etc.
Can't think of anything that will improve things. Will hopefully be back. |
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| ...of the sense of being in God's cathedral - both outdoors and indoors - and cemented together with all the TLC showered on us. Devoured three serious tones (I brought all three, thinking I would choose one when I got there - but in the end had such a spiritual uplift in all three. Thank you also for such warmth in your welcome and sharing. The bar was an added bit of fun with much laughter. My room could not have been nicer - thank you! |
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- space - to reflect, to read, to walk
- good food
- comfortable room/accommodation
- worship
- [better if] more accessible by "train"
- daily newspaper
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| ...both the practical and pastoral guidelines were clear and sensitive to people's possible needs. The staff and volunteers were sensitive, open and friendly and very willing to give assistance. The atmosphere was supportive and relaxed. The food and accommodation were both very good. I was very struck by the willingness of the staff to do all that was possible to accommodate my needs. Thank you! Good to have both fellowship and solitude. The grounds and local walks are stunning - and the grounds map, walk guides are so clear. I'm very grateful for a wonderful stay here. |
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...I could escape
Relax/walk/birdwatch
Not have to talk/talk shop (loved the rule!)
Have a jacuzzi and massage (a new experience)
No pressure on time or for having to think
I found for a brief while space for myself
Really appreciated Sarah's approach on my initial contact by phone as well as her welcome on arrival
Appreciated the sensitivity of all the staff and opportunity to talk to Carl
Excellent food.
Don't think it could have been any better |
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| ...It was superb to have space and time with freedom to do what I needed/wanted. The option of prayers or not, food in room or not, etc. The staff made sure we could not help(!) and the House Rules are excellent and very necessary. |
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...The hospitality has made the time very special - nothing more could have been done for our comfort or to make us feel welcome and 'at home'! The food has been excellent - my very grateful thanks for the delicious "veggie" dishes.
The situation is heavenly (but, then, it is Devon..!), and the peace and silence are gifts, and a source of healing and re-creation.
The Quiet Day was very good - just what I needed, and it "spoke to my condition".
A huge thank you to all the team for the part each has played in giving us a wonderful week. I shall hope to be able to come again.
The only extra thing I would have appreciated would have been more silent meals, but I realise that many who come, with far greater needs than mine, value meal times for sharing socially (without "shop" strings attached!!) |
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...Of the peace and quiet. Having access to the library. The daily morning and evening prayers. The opportunity for reading, rest and prayer. The no "clergy shop talk" rule, although with so many of them around, it seemed difficult to enforce!
...It would have been good for there to have been a 'silent' table available at meals. |
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...It provided all I needed -
... time to step back - a little, but enough;
... opportunity to be quiet and unpressured;
... opportunity to broaden my spiritual awareness, using the library to discover Julian of Norwich;
... something therefore to take back with me as a new resource for my ministry;
... and so new possibilities with Christ to cope with ministry in a modern world. |
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....of the care and love from the community and the thoughtfulness given to individual quirks, eg. fresh fruit available with a sharp fruit knife instead of pud.
The peace and quiet of my bedroom. The "no shop talk" rule.
The bar before supper. |
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.. it was lovely to be looked after and unobtrusively supported while having the space to do whatever I wanted; plus the resources of library, places to be, and countryside. Good food and plenty of it. No compulsion or pressure of any kind. A lovely room with a windowsill perfect for sitting on to read! |
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| ... The atmosphere was so spiritual and peaceful. The community members could not do enough for you in friendliness and helpfulness. The daily routine was pitched perfectly to allow to pursue one's own interests or enjoy the companionship of others. Thank you for a wonderfully restful week! |
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of the community's care for me and my needs as an individual
of the lovely en-suite room and the flowers
of the nourishing and lovingly prepared food
of the beauty and peace of this special place where God is
so much is given here and so little expected in return
Thank you
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.... of your care and attention to detail
of the 'upgraded' accommodation
Many thanks. I will return!
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Thank you so much to all the staff, helpers/volunteers for their servant hearts in all they gave to the group during the week in care and hospitality.
The chalet was warm and comfortable and a good size to enable me to use it as my study area. The joining toilet, bathroom and kitchen facility was ideal. The view from the chalet window of the hills and fields was great.
The jacuzzi was brilliant - especially as I was recovering from back/leg pain. The price promotion was a good incentive to book again.
Your new building work is superb - each room is relaxing to be in.
The food was excellent.
I left feeling relaxed and having accomplished the reading/study that I aimed to do. |
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... the warmth of the staff and volunteers
the quality of the meals
the opportunity to meet others over a drink in the delightful bar
the well-timed intervals for work between meals/coffee, etc
Thank you for a lovely stay |
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the warm and friendly atmosphere
the attention to detail
the friendly group on the pilgrimage
the facilities in the Pound House and the grounds
pre supper drinks in the Fat Pigeon. |
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... of the general atmosphere of the house, the surroundings and the staff. Time to think and pray with no distractions. The walks were a joy as I now feel vulnerable walking alone, so the good company and the variety of the walks were a delight. Contemplation as I walked the prayer meadow path did, indeed, lead to a solution to a way forward. The chapel prayers brought peace and comfort and the meals were delicious. |
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..it provided a welcome break from cooking etc
it provided well-cooked nutritious meals
comfortable room with welcome en-suite facility
sociable meal times and drinks around bar
well-planned trips and walks - good variety |
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. It was lovely to just 'be' - away from the stresses, pressures and distractions of normal parish life and routine. To have the freedom to read uninterruptedly or go for a walk or just sit in the gardens or chapel was most welcome. |
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A beautiful combination of courtesy, hospitality and space. |
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You gave me some space, free to think, write, read, walk and sleep without the phone, the e-mail or the post waging their tyrannous war against the daily round, the common task. Thanks to Jean, David and Caroline, and Mary and Penny for their unobtrusive ministry. Love and thanks. |
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I arrived exhausted and left refreshed, and cannot thank you enough. |
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I have appreciated the time and space I have experienced here. I have been able to wind down and feel a lot more peaceful. Sheldon lived up to everything I expected it to be. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality. The people were wonderful especially staff and volunteers. |
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We enjoyed the time because..
of the warm and comprehensive welcome
of the efficiency and courtesy of the booking arrangements
of the delightful accommodation (Stephen's Lodge) and the generosity of the stocked cupboards (fridge).
of the food, so fresh and excellently prepared/cooked
of the freedom to engage or not engage in planned activities. |
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...spacious accommodation. Breakfast on our own. Meals. Unobtrusive love and acceptance. Grounds and views. Quiet new year eve celebrations. Little touches, eg. bird feeders. |
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.. I like being with you. I admire the discipline and self-denial which maintains your fellowship, and the service it renders to God and humanity. I like the place in which you have been so fortunate as to live in fellowship. It is also a satisfaction that I have got some hard reading done, of books which I have had by me for some time. |
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. the food is delicious, the accommodation comfortable with every detail attended to. The community welcoming and supportive without being intrusive, and just enough structure and worship to each day. I wish I could stay longer. There is nothing I would criticise and I hope and pray you can continue in this way, so I and other friends may come to stay again. |
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.. of the calm caring atmosphere. Nothing was too much trouble and everyone so welcoming and positive. |
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Good balance between private space and communal activity
Everything well organised - as usual
Eating/drinking in the new buildings is very enjoyable. |
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Excellent food as always
Lots of time - totally looked after!
Warm and cosy everywhere
Congenial company |
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... The food, the company, the atmosphere, the weather, the Fat Pigeon - everything really. I didn't have to go home on Saturday, but all good things do have to come to an end .. |
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.The warmth. It was lovely to go from area to area and not to have to adjust. Comfortable and modern rooms. A lovely atmosphere, gentle, friendly, kind. A Christian atmosphere without being OTT. Food! Thank you ladies. Scenery. Jan's massage. |
