Going Up North

Well, I've got to pack my bags and drive to Nottingham this evening. Last time I went there, I arrived at the hotel only to find I had left my handbag at home. Must make sure not to do that this time.

Then from Nottingham it's up to Edinburgh to see a new client. To be honest, I'm looking forward to that part of the trip, even though it's going to take me over 5 hours to get from Nottingham to Edinburgh, and I'll get there in the dark. I'm staying over at a friend's in Newcastle on the way back, and the drive through the Borders should be glorious - no, I'm not going along the A1. I'm also looking forward to doing the installation in two days time - hiring a car and getting into the Highlands (well, the Perthshire bit) on an evening. I need the mountains!!!

I must get on and book something in Wales for the end of May. I'm sure there won't be anything left...

J and I watched a fascinating programme last night about science and spirituality. It was actually presented very well, asking questions like "what constitutes madness?", "what actually goes on?" It was odd, watching the snip from the Hillsong church in London. It was very like the church in Leeds used to be - and there was an emotional tug there - almost as if I just wanted to be back in that environment, even though I knew it was an emotionally manipulative one. They had some speaking in tongues too - well, I can still do that, and I know that's not an exclusive Christian experience.

J and I discussed it at the end of the evening. I don't think she believes in Christianity at all now - she said it was unimportant, and said today that she doesn't believe the Bible (or believe in the Bible). But she does feel a connection to something bigger than herself - which I can understand even if I no longer feel it. I think she's slowly realising that the only reason she wants to go to the small group is for the social side - she said as much this morning, and my response is the same, I would willingly go for the social elements but it's too difficult to opt out of the spiritual ones and you end up with few points of contact. She said she almost went tonight (see, I thought it wouldn't last much beyond the standard break), until she found out what was on the agenda. So I think we're trying to arrange some social stuff to "fill the gaps".