First Impressions

If I were to be true to the spirit of things here, I’d be writing this in both Welsh and English. As soon as we crossed the ‘border’ between England and Wales, all signs were in both languages. The driver who picked me up at the airport told me he lived in Chester but actually grew up in Wales. All Welsh children are required to learn Welsh. But…I’ve only been here a few hours so . . . there will be no Welsh here!

The journey from Manchester to Hawarden, which should have taken about an hour took almost two. There was an accident on the ‘motorway’ so serious that the road was totally backed up. Bad news for those in the accident. For me, however, it was a treat because the driver got off the motorway and drove small country roads through lovely English villages almost the entire way here. It took longer but was just wonderful!

Gladstone’s Library is located smack dab in the midst of Hawarden (pronounced Harden). As far as I can see, there are two pubs, a coffee shop, two beauty shops, a post office, a drug store and two dress shops. Oh, and a castle . . . haven’t found that yet but I know it is out there somewhere. After arriving and getting my key and a brief tour of the place, I spent time unpacking and then took a walking tour of the little town. The Library is located on “Church Street” (see the pictures – of the sign and the street). The ‘church’ is St. Deniol’s which was the home church for William Gladstone. I spent time walking through it as well – as well as the cemetery surrounding the church. That will take some more exploring later. I did, however, take a picture of my room from the cemetery. If you look under the left dormer window, you’ll see 4 narrower windows, one of which has an upper window open – that’s my home for the next month!

As for accommodations . . . I am in an ‘apartment like’ area with two library interns and a marketing intern. We each have our own rooms (Lyle will be glad to know that) and we share a bathroom. The room is spacious but simple – quite nice for study and reflection.

I met the warden (strange word for us but it means the person in charge here), Peter Francis. He warmly welcomed me and assured me I had no duties today. (I was relieved – I have a lot to learn before I can welcome people adequately and that is one of my jobs!) Sounds like tomorrow is orientation day!

There is a 7 hour time difference between here and Helena. I admit, it seems strange that, as I get ready for a 6:45 dinner, people at St. Paul’s are just beginning worship. Thanks Rick Hulbert and Tyler Amundson for what I know is a great Sunday…and welcome to all the new members. As the church bells ring at St. Deniols and the evening approaches in Hawarden (pronounced ‘Harden’ – that’s the last reminder!), I’m thinking of you all!