What do you call a collective of Embalmers?

I have no idea.   But after spending this weekend with 100 of them, I would say something like ' A bloody great bunch'.

This weekend was our biennial gathering of fellows, members and students of the British Institute of Embalmers for a day and a half of lectures and general socialising.   Having members from all over the world means we are lucky enough to attract some excellent speakers who work within embalming or research into embalming and anatomy.   We had sessions which showed slides and video work of some of the most skilled reconstruction embalming I have ever seen.  I can only dream of being able to help a family view their loved one who committed suicide by placing their head under a compacting whacker plate.   Another fascinating lecture demonstrated how connected our vascular system is using the assistance of phosphorescence.   It truly is a beautiful thing to watch a body glow.  Imagine donating your body to medical science and then watch it from your 'heaven' being lit up in full glory!

Another interesting talk demonstrated an alternative method of embalming babies.   This lecture was backed up with a full hand-out of which I am always grateful.  I am so appreciative of my colleagues sharing their knowledge with me,  as I know others are.   It really is a special gift to be able to innovate, push boundaries and share willingly.

The evenings are spent having dinner and chatting with friends old and new.    Being part hippy, I really appreciate the freedom of being able to walk up to anyone and introduce myself and ask them about themselves.  Some take to it well, others find it awkward but after a couple of drinks loosen up!  Also, I must stop kissing people!   I do it only by way of greeting previous attendees you understand, but a couple of people recoiled as I thrust myself upon them.   Poor devils!

When I arrived at work today, I was faced with a pre-term baby and two post mortem cases, one of which was a young lady.  One is always keen as mustard after Keele; having been inspired, educated and comparing stories for two days.     I changed into my scrubs and set to work willing to apply any new techniques I had picked up.    I changed around a couple of my working methods today and spent a little longer looking at the vessels in the PM.

I am quickened once more.