Whatever happens in the coming weeks and months, the French holiday will hang around Ieuan Wyn Jones' neck, just as one decision to skip a D-Day commemoration in favour of a golf event did for Rhodri Morgan.

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Crossing it on a windy day can make your heart skip a beat or two.

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The day before a long weekend is traditionally a quiet one, as many market professionals skip out early.

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Do you skip to the office every morning, whistling a happy tune, with an eager sense of anticipation about what the day might have in store?

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Those needing a temporary escape from the pace of 21st-century life can stay at the abbey for a few days or a whole week, praying with the monks (some guests might decide to skip the first service of the day, at 3:20 in the morning), eating the same vegetarian fare as the monks, and observing the same strict silence at mealtimes.

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