I knew it was familiar! Back in the late seventies I was a schoolteacher in County Durham and some of us attended a teachers' retreat there in one of the stately homes on the estate! I just remembered Ripon, but when I looked it up it made sense. I remember one of the teachers being convinced a ghost came into our room at one point. Then it was hard for the rest of us to sleep!

I'm glad you are getting rid of all your addictions. I can't really relate, because I never started to smoke cigarettes, and only have the occasional glass of wine with dinner. And on very rare occasions like holidays, I'll have a cocktail. BUT, and it's a big one, I am hooked on my morning coffee after being caffeine free for many years.

Your paintings are awesome! I hope you manage to sell some.