I am your Father

Th annual Tar Bar'l New Years Eve Celebrations in our village were a breezy affair this year. The local menfolk braved gusty winds as they hauled their blazing barrels around the village just before midnight, watched by family, friends and visitors from near and far. They throw their barrels onto a bonfire to welcome the light back into the world after the darkest days of the year. It's a wonderful celebration. The little one on the left, in the yellow jacket, is pointing to his father 'Darth Vader'. Very proud! And one day the little boy will get the chance to follow in his father's footsteps and carry a barrel himself. 'Yoda', seen just behind Darth, is in fact my brother who has been carrying a barrel for quite a few years now. My Dad had the job before him. Ophelia was a bit miffed tonight and wondered why girls weren't allowed to carry them. I explained that a woman once did carry a barrel, many, many years ago. One of my female friends has put herself forward to carry a torch in the parade next year too, so maybe in the future Ophelia will have a chance? I think I would be very nervous for her. Happy New Year!