The Eve . . .

We visited Paisley Abbey where Mum’s funeral service will be held tomorrow. Stepping inside takes your breath away and, at the same, supports you instantly in centuries of profound worship that has taken place since it was founded over 800 years ago.

The left hand view is towards the Great East Window, and the right hand view is towards the West Door, where Mum’s coffin will enter the abbey and proceed down the aisle before switching to the side and more intimate St. Mirin’s Chapel.

I stood where I will stand tomorrow to deliver the eulogy and got accustomed to the lectern height and where my glass of water will rest. Although I have a strong voice, a mic. will be used as the speaker production softens the tone and echoes.

We were very gently received by all the Abbey staff. Would you believe that the office manager, who will direct logistics tomorrow, once stayed in Mum’s B&B in Pitlochry, as she knew my sister, Alexis, through her husband’s circle many years ago! ‘A real character!’, she called her.

We visited the funeral director’s parlour for a last hand squeeze and kiss on brow with Mum. After, we visited, on foot, all the places in Paisley that my mother had stayed in her life. Also, Brodie Park, a scene of so many early family home movies with prams and first steps to the fore!

A few extras to mark the day . . .