Farnborough Abbey

[created Saturday... but I lost the internet]
We traveled 30 minutes by train to Farnborough, whose (by far) most interesting asset is the Benedictine Abbey with quite a history: The monastery and church were built by the Empress Eugenie, widow of Napoleon III, as a burial place for them and their son. The community has 7 monks, led by an Abbot of very good humor. (Yes... she was French... long story.)
We are staying in the "south cottage" -- a wonderful, spacious and well-equipped place surrounded by lush fields, trees, chickens (and roosters...no alarm clocks needed), cows and pigs. The cows remind me of my childhood years in West Boylston; as you can see below, I made friends immediately. The view from our deck (pictured left) is peaceful in the extreme. (You can see the top of the Abbey in the trees.) It has its own dirt road with a gate that is manually opened to come and go.
The town is a very short walk down the hill; we are there now for a WiFi signal and some food. (We are self-catering in the cottage.)
Benedictines take hospitality as a high sacred calling, and they are taught that Christ visits them in every guest ... no matter who they are or where they are on life's journey. (Gee, that sounds familiar.) Bro. Thomas is the Guestmaster, a delightful and helpful fellow. They are very laid back aboout what their guests do while here; all are welcome at any of their services. (There are 8 each day, all in Latin / Gregorian chant.) I am finding them peaceful; there is no need to try and translate or understand... a foreign concept for Protestants. They are occasions for simple mystery and majesty.
Liz right away planted flowers in the several flower boxes that had been neglected giving the house a more welcoming look.