Another day - another entry by ChatGPT

 I added bullet points this time and told it not to copy the wording from yesterday - not bad at all!

**Diary Entry: Tuesday, 22nd October**

Today started earlier than I wanted, thanks to the Airbnb guest leaving at 4:50 am. They made so much noise—why can't people just close doors quietly? I tried to get back to sleep but ended up tossing and turning until I finally got up and started working around 8:00 am.

After a while, I took Bess out for a walk. The fresh air helped clear my head, and she seemed to enjoy it as usual. Later in the day, I played around with ChatGPT, getting some cocktail suggestions based on what I had in the bar. That was pretty fun—got a few ideas for the next time we have people over.

Work was good today, nothing too stressful, and I managed to keep on top of everything. Wrapped things up on time and decided to try a decent stir-fry recipe for dinner. I swapped out the usual chicken for spicy sausages, and it turned out really well. Everyone seemed to enjoy it.

After dinner, I took Bess for another walk to wind down. Then, we played a couple of rounds of Monopoly Deal with Jack and Natasha. Jack completely crushed me in the first game, but I got my revenge and won the second one.

We finished the evening with some TV before heading to bed around 9:30 pm. Overall, a solid day!

Diary entry written by Chat GPT!!

See my prompt and what it produced!!

Prompt:

Write a diary entry for me that includes the following events that happened. Natasha worked around the house and garden, I worked with customers remotely and was busy but finished up to date, diner was spag bol, bootcamp at the gym for us both, watch Netflix and monsters documentary in the evening before bed with hot choc yams night time tea

Response:

Diary Entry:

Today was a productive one. While Natasha spent most of the day working around the house and tending to the garden, I was busy with remote work, handling customer requests. It felt like a non-stop stream of emails and calls, but I managed to power through and finish up everything. It’s always a good feeling being up to date with work, especially after a hectic day.

For dinner, we had spaghetti bolognese—simple, but always a favorite. Afterward, we both headed to the gym for bootcamp. It was intense, but we pushed through together, and I felt great afterward, like the perfect end to a productive day.

In the evening, we settled down with Netflix and watched a documentary on monsters, which was surprisingly gripping. To wind down before bed, we made some hot chocolate and had Yams Night Time tea, a nice calming finish to the day. Feeling ready to rest up and take on tomorrow.

Additional prompt by me:

Add to this that I was up at 5.30am as I couldn’t sleep so went for a light run but was useless and unfit and walked a lot. Say that I started work about 6.30am to get ahead of the day and catch up with weekend work

Remove the bit about Yams night time tea, just call it night time tea

Diary Entry:

Today started earlier than expected. I was up at 5:30 am because I couldn’t sleep, so I decided to go for a light run. It didn’t go as planned—I felt pretty useless and unfit, ended up walking more than running, but at least I got outside for a bit. After that, I started work around 6:30 am to get ahead of the day and catch up on some work from the weekend.

While Natasha worked around the house and garden, I stayed busy with customers remotely. It was a non-stop flow of tasks, but I managed to keep up and finished everything. Feels good to be on top of things.

Dinner was spaghetti bolognese, which hit the spot. Then we both headed to the gym for bootcamp. It was intense, but we pushed through together, and I felt great after the session—definitely needed that after such a long day.

We wound down by watching a monster documentary on Netflix, which was more interesting than I expected. Before bed, we had some hot chocolate and night time tea, the perfect way to relax and finish off the evening.

Scary isn't it? I might just put bullet points into the system and let it write it again for me - will try tomorrow and see what is comes up with when I tell it to change the wording!

Early birthday celebrations with the boys

 Woke up with a bit of a head on me but nothing too drastic, got sorted and then made my way to golf, Wayne, Nathan Creed and Julio made the foursome and we started at 9.00am to avoid the rain and it worked. But it was super wet out there - wasn't much fun. Went round in 96 (35 points) - bit disappointing to be honest but can't have great rounds all the time.

Got some shopping done on the way home and Lewis had arrived and we had a nice fry up for brunch. We were all a bit tired so had a snooze after clearing things up and then 3.30pm went out and parked at Mum's work and went to the Sixes cricket set up in John Lewis

Had a cocktail that was nice and a beer and then played the cricket - it was great. Very well done - I'd have liked to play longer but they were quite strict on the time limits unfortunately. We then went looking for a roof-top bar but they were full so ended up in the Chequers for one and then back to the Lebanese restaurant near the Westgate centre and the food was lovely. Really enjoyed that.

Stopped off at the Wig and Pen and then came home

Started watching a film but gave but because we were falling asleep - went to bed about 11.00pm in the end

Really good day and evening, loved it. Nice to spend time with Lewis and Jack.  

Home alone - sort of - Jack is here still

This morning at 2.30am Tash got up and with Charlotte and Simon flew over to Ibiza to see Marc and Dani - she's not well with cancer which is obviously a concern so Tash wanted to see them and lend her support. Tash has sent photos already and I saw that Wendy and Graham are there too so that's brilliant all round.

Jack is home now for the weekend and was working hard, as was I! After saying I was in control yesterday it's been pretty full on today but I am on top of things which is good. Had a meeting about the new Job Description and I was very positive and that so not letting on that there are any issues. Which to be fair is true, I am quite "happy" with my situation at the minute. See how long it lasts

I've been lazy and distracted with things of late so I need to get back on track with the diary and fitness and that so hopefully this will be the start of improving myself.

We will see!

Early morning golf and evening Gym

Up bright and early again today so went straight off to golf at 6.20am and had nine holes out there in lovely sunshine, but there was a chill in the air so needed some layers. I did okay and had a brilliant tee shot on the 4th to land only 1yrd away to birdie it - pleased with that!

But lost two balls in the water again.

Back home by 8.15am and did a day's work as usual

My new putter was delivered and as it said on the site, it was brand new and in its wrapping - seems okay so need to go an practise with it now.

Got my Kili diary transcript completed which is pleasing but there was an abrupt end to it as I obviously gave up on summit day. I have kept the entry open so I can go an update it from memory. I plan to keep the pages of notes and not throw them away.

Tash was out again all day walking with Anna and then pottered around the house and garden in the rain! Had dinner, and I walked Bess - I decided that Run Club is a bit of a waste of time - thinking about it there's a 2hr round trip as we leave at 5.30pm to join the traffic and get home about 7.30pm having run for about 30 mins. I said I'd rather spend that time here - and I did, I went to the gym and got 90 mins workout done so a much better use of my time. Struggled a bit with the running but rowing and cycling I sweated my bollocks off.

Home and wasting time on my phone, watched a bit of TV and then early night (well 10.00pm)

A decent day all told

Golf and Kilimanjaro Diary transcribed

Woken up bright and early this morning by the alarm at 5.45am - Tash wasn't impressed..

Got up and did about 20mins work, and then got my stuff and left for the golf course. I couldn't go any earlier as it was too dark, got to Radley about 6.40am and was on the course on my own but it took a while to lighten up - such a shame that summer is on its way out..but there you go.

I had a decent nine holes, although I struggled on the 7th which was annoying. Only did the nine as two groups of old men teed off and it was about 8.00am so thought it best that I get back home to the office.

Traffic was okay and I had a busy day of it

Halfway through I checked the doorstep and sure enough my new laptop arrived - hopefully take more care of this one - and as usual that meant losing time setting it up and downloading all the programmes I need for it, it seemed to go fairly smoothly so that's good - nice to have a proper keyboard that doesn't miss characters when I type.

Work is getting busier but the lads are experienced now so coping with things being thrown at them.

Made dinner in the evening, Tash got wet cycling home, and then went off to catch up with Lucie - I took Bess on a long walk and then home to continue transcribing my Kilimanjaro hand-written notes into this Blogger diary. It's slow going but it's bringing back so many memories, I am so very pleased that I wrote in the detail that I did, it's making everything so really and remembered. I'd spent some of the day doing it and then a couple of hours in the evening as we were waiting for our net Airbnb who arrived at 10.00pm meaning I could go to bed

A long day.

Something I am pleased about is I was able to put into practise some of the golf shots I've been practising at home in the garden - just using my pitching wedge to hit 20ft. It made hell of a difference, I felt confident in what I was doing and how far to pull back my swing when checking out the distances close to the green. Very useful and will definitely continue to practise that going forwards.

Tonight Josephine and Charlotte late night!

Woke up early as we're off early and have things to do so jumped in the hot-tub for a bit and then I made bacon sandwiches. Got sorted and ready to go and Jodie arrived then Tash and I went to get Sue and Lewis/Jodie got Charlotte and we all made our way to Birmingham.

I dropped Sue and Tash as close to the station as possible and then found parking and went to the pub and had a nice pint of Camden Hells Pale Ale - as good as lager to be far. The girls all went off to Tonight Josephine round the corner and Lewis and I went off wandering around the Bullring shopping.

I was looking for new trainers, found some but couldn't get my size, loads of shops that I could have bought from but was ultimately unsuccessful, back to the drawing board.

Lewis and I then went to the market and as much as I hate it the very first stall had the frying pan fat protectors I had on my birthday list for £3.50 total (for two) so I went ahead and got them.

We then went to Bills for lunch which was lovely - nice burger, shit fries!

Went and met up with the girls when they'd finished their show and they were in a downstairs bar (along with all the other women from the show too) and it was a good atmosphere. Sue had absolutely loved it, Charlotte less so complaining about the food, drinks and music - she wasn't the only one - but they'd all had a good time it seems. Loads of posing and photos and a few drinks but the car park times were running our so we needed to leave.

Lewis and Emily going up North, me taking Charl, Tash and Jodie - stopped for beers and chocolate and wee break and then back home. Dropped Charl at Bicester because Miles was in Bournemouth with his mates and Charl had the taste for it so was going out with Katie, we took Jodie back to her mum's in Stokenchurch and the made our way back home.

Sat in the hot-tub with a few beers and then came in and watched some TV before going to bed.

Got a phone call about 11.30pm from Katie asking if we could get Charl as she couldn't walk or talk - last thing we needed, especially as I'd had a drink, but we had no option and went and got her - sure enough she was a state!

Got her home to her bedroom but she was noisy and it was awkward because we had an Airbnb (I don't think she was impressed as she left the following day and didn't reply to messages..oops!). Finally Charl collapsed and it was quiet, we laid out a towel and bucket and hoped for the best

We did check on her in the night and she was fine. Quite a long and eventful day!

BBQ in the rain

What a shit day it was today, nothing to do with work - that was fine - the weather was awful.

Miserable and raining and very dark the whole time. I manged some exercises in the "bar gym" which was good but we had Lewis coming down and Charl, Miles and my mum coming over in the evening so I still went ahead and got things readied in the garden to sit out and have a BBQ - I did have an umbrella over it so that was good but no-one was interested in staying outside so we started out - got very smoked out and then ate inside. I think that pissed Tash off.

Nice evening, few beers and bottles of wine drunk and then about 9.30pm people went home. Lewis and I watched the Guy Ritchie film - Ministry of Ungentlemanly Conduct - third time for me and he loved it too. That finished at midnight and he took Bess for a quick walk around the block as she'd eaten so much in the evening

Really nice evening - enjoyed it 

JK Run Club

Bit of a nothing day in terms of work - keeping up to date and dealing with all issues and ticking along. 

Been working through the photos I have in iCloud and moving them into folder on OneDrive - amazing how much we fit into our lives it really is

 

We travelled over to Bicester for Run Club, and were v early for once, did the warm up and then it was a straight 30mins run - I came last!! I completed the time but I am so slow, but then I go at a steady pace that suits me, just it's not very fast..

Came home and pottered around, I watched the Deacon Blue concert video I'd recorded which was great fun, exercised too and then another early night.

Afternoon run AND Bootcamp!

Starting to get busier at work because people are coming back after their summer holidays, so it won't be long before we're snowed under again! However, it's been nice to catch up and have a comfortable few weeks.

I went out for a run at lunchtime, got as far as the Trout and then cramp hit my left calf, my fault I am sure as I've not drunk must water today, thought about turning back but carried on and it was okay, it was like a strain but nothing dangerous. Ran to Wytham and back which is what Tash did in the morning so I was keeping up with her.

Tired me out for the rest of the afternoon if the truth be told.

Had a snooze for a bit and then we went to boot camp for our private session! We worked hard today but also felt better during it so that was a definite positive. Sad news as we left in that Steve told us he was moving on and joining Radley College as the Gym Manager there.

Didn't do much in the evening, watched a bit of tv (Celebrity Race Around the World) and then an early night. Will be aching in the morning no doubt!

Golf and French Bistro evening

Didn't even realise it was the 1st of September until Monday morning (2nd) - how time is flying.

Really good day today.

Up early and down to Wickes and Aldi for shopping, Tash got the food and drink and I got the varnish for the table and back home worked on the table really taking my time and as much care as I could and though I say so myself, I did a brilliant job, the table looks as good as new, really, really pleased with it.

Sorted the garden and then Tash went over to her Mum's to help get things in order and I went off and played golf on my own, it was great, hardly anyone there, so fortunate to have such a quiet golf course. My round was pretty indifferent but I do feel I got some consistency with my driving, not straight but I was able to address/accommodate the pronounced fade that I have in my game.

Anyway, pretty shit round and did 100 strokes, really need to be getting into the low 90's. That wasn't the main story for the day..on the 17th (water hole) I was putting and then heard a crash, my trolley had rolled into the lake and my bag was face down in the water - incredibly nothing was lost but it was all soaking wet! Made the guys on the WhatsApp chat laugh. Plonker!

Didn't go home, we arranged with my mum to meet her at Shotover, Tash and Bess came separately too and we went for a walk around the park, mum was a bit slow and seemed to find it tough going but as usual she plodded along uncomplaining. She asked about Jeff, that was interesting, I didn't shy away from the subject and said what we'd talked about and that we'd arrange to meet up - no idea how she took it, probably pissed that we've not been to see Louise and Joey etc.

We then went home and it was a lovely hot day so I took a detour to Summertown and got some wine because we're out and then Tash did more in the garden and I cooked chicken tarragon and it was lovely. But what made it fun is that I set up the outside garden table as a restaurant complete with napkins and French bistro music on - it was a lovely setting under the grape vines and felt very "international" and "holiday" like. Stayed out and drank more and just relaxed - it was such a lovely (and almost romantic!) evening. 

A perfect end to a lovely weekend.

Long run from Blenheim

Tash went off to yoga early in the morning and I pottered around and got jobs done and then we went over to Charlotte's and in turn went to Blenheim Palace so they could do a long run to end the week.

They were going off to Milton Keynes shopping for Charl's birthday and needed Tash's car so instead of taking two cars I decided that I'd just run home instead, sounds a long way but it's only 6 miles so a perfect distance. I was with them in the Blenheim grounds not for long but to view some of the amazing cars they had there on show for something going on - God only knows how much money was on display for all these beautiful cars on display.

So anyway, off I went and it was okay, I did stop for a few seconds because of a really annoying Airbnb person (Meredith) contacting us, thank goodness she leaves today - she's been hard work. But otherwise I then stopped at the Dog Kennels roundabout for 5 mins, I was knackered and it was only 4.8miles! Not ideal.

I then ran the rest of the way home pushing my legs although I so wanted to stop. The thought occurred to me that having done that once, I'd have to do it 4.5 times to complete a marathon - this is quite a challenge we've taken on!! Think I'm regretting it a bit. Hopefully it will get me fitter though so there's a motivation behind all this!

I then had the afternoon to myself and was a bit lazy for an hour or so and watched cricket and hid from Meredith until she left. Then I decided to get things done and worked on sanding the dining room table, it's very battered and worn so we're hoping that sanding the top varnish off and re-doing it will give it a new lease of life. I only used the handheld mouse sander as my belt sander would be too heavy duty and it worked fine but was time-consuming, dusty and quite hard work to be honest. But slowly I got it done and then covered it in case of rain - which is exactly what happened! 

Tash called late and said they were all going to come over to ours and have a Chinese take-away as no-one could be bothered to cook and they got here about 7.00pm, same time as Miles and the food was excellent - really lovely. Watched a film, Chilren of Men, which I sort of enjoyed but no one else was fond of it so that was disappointing and then Charl and Miles went home as they wanted their beds this evening which of course was fine. Not a boozy evening at all and an early night in the end.

A decent day all told.

Tiff's Kids Over for the night

 Normal day at work, got jobs done in between and even made it out for a run - bloody hot at 12.30pm but I managed a few miles, I am going to find this marathon really hard to be honest, I am not doing well with this initial training.

Tash has Tiff's kids tomorrow and is taking them down to Bournemouth for the day as she's off with her new boyfriend (Aaron) for the weekend, yep, she's got a new bloke in already...no further comment from me on that though, it's none of my business.

Anyway, Tash was in Bicester in the afternoon so thought it best and most convenient to pick the kids up today instead of in the morning and have them sleep the night.

No Brendan, but that's not a surprise, he's almost 18 now, so Dulce, Ellwood and Ivy came over and they were full of beans and energy from the very moment they arrived, they're really lovely children and it was fun having them over. Dulce is so cute and cheeky, so like Charlotte. We ate so many treats and crap I felt quite sick by the time for bed - even stopped the ice cream van too.

Took them to the local park when walking Bess and Dulce kept asking to carry the poo bag and was eager to pick up any poo when Bess next went (she didn't go) but that was both amusing and odd. I said she's going to be a vet!

We got them settled down, much later than they would normally go to bed, Ivy and Ellwood shared Charlotte's bed and Dulce said she wanted to sleep with Tasha - so I ended up sleeping on the sofa! That wasn't ideal I'll be honest

So the evening finished and everyone went to bed except the Airbnb we have staying who sat at the dining room table whilst I watched the end of my Viking series, she was still up when I settled myself down to sleep, but it was uncomfortable and I woke up with a real pain in my back - not nice

But it was lovely having the kids - they really are great and they look out for each other so well.

Run Club again

Not much to report in the day itself, took the old dining room chairs to the dump at Ardley, that was a bit of a shame throwing those away!

Tash came back from work and went out with Anna and Cathy down at the Medley pub along by the Perch so didn't see much of her.

As agreed, I went out to run club in Bicester and met Charlotte - just us two today. We did 12 mins together, then for the next two intervals she ran on ahead - I struggled to be honest but it's good I was out there. I really just need to keep putting in the time and hours like I did with walking and preparing for Kili.

I have had an odd muscle strain for two days now which I think is from golf and sitting down too much - really painful to touch and yet wasn't a problem for me when running - most odd.

As I came back home I felt I needed to do a bit more so popped in the gym for perhaps the shortest time ever! I did 3 mins running and then 10 mins rowing - then left..

Relaxed at home and watched some episodes of Vikings Valhalla - I am nearing the season 3 end which is where it stops I think, pretty sure they're doing season 4 though. 

New dining room chairs

I bet Samuel Pepys didn’t get to write about such things in his diary! 

Pretty nothing day today, I was feeling well, I’ve got a cold and couldn’t concentrate on my work. Luckily it’s still not very busy. 

As per the intriguing headline, we had new charis for the dining room delivered and I put the legs together and were pleased with them. See how long these ones last then. Sadly I’ll take the others to the dump tomorrow. 

Charlotte came over in the evening to bring back the camping stuff they borrowed for their festival (Creamfields) at the weekend and we caught up on each others news. They had a fantastic time with such great DJs, of course I was jealous!! She stayed quite a long time and had dinner with us so that was lovely. 

Walked Bess, had a bath because my left leg is absolutely killing me and I should have gone for a run but sucked out of that. 

Bank Holiday Weekend away in Braunton

 Went down to Braunton for the long weekend with Wayne and Kerry. They arrived at ours around 6.00am and we were on the road 10 mins later, the run down to Devon was very good indeed, we didn't need to stop and the traffic was busy but kept at a steady 70mph so that was great.

Sadly, the weather wasn't great so instead of going straight to Baggy Point for the walk, we stopped in Barnstable for breakfast with the intention of delaying a bit and giving the weather a chance to improve, and to be far it did.

We drove through Braunton and on to the coast and through Croyde to the National Trust car park, got sorted and then went on the walk around the coastline - it was excellent, so dramatic and the weather was good so we had great views and no rain.Very enjoyable, walked all the way around to Putsborough Beach which is the south end of Woolacombe (which we could see in the distance) and then had lunch on the beach. Bloody windy which meant the surf was huge and it was exciting, really wanted to get into it!

We made our way back to the van and then onto the campsite just in Braunton, seemed nice enough and we got sorted out - I set up the awning but it was very windy, storm like, but it was needed so we took the risk.

It was a small site, right next to a cricket pitch but flat and decent. Had a few drinks and a relax and then got dinner on the go - Kerry had cooked spag bol so that got heated up and we played cards outside until late. Tash was a bit tipsy and kept winning at crib which she made the most of celebrating and rubbing Wayne's nose in it! Was funny to be fair. Walked the dogs and went to Tesco and they found some pillows as they'd left theirs in Oxford - then hot drinks and bed!

The wind was howling but the awning held fast so that was a relief.

Sunday we emerged about 8.30am, so convenient and comfortable and warm in the van, makes hell of a difference. I cooked breakfast, I had three hobs on the go and it worked really well, got it all delivered hot at the same time and though I say so myself, it was lovely! Made packed lunches for later in the day and then tidied up and got on the road and went the few miles down to Westward Ho. I like it here, it's a real seaside town, parked in the dunes and then went for a walk past the "haunted house" along the cliff edge. It was very, very windy and then sure enough, it started pissing down with rain! We'd got a decent distance and then decided to turn back and return to town.

Wayne attacked the sweet shop and then we had drinks in the pub garden nearby as the sun shone (very fluctuating weather!!). After a bit we made our way back to the car and Tash and I decided that we'd definitely like to get out in the sea and do a bit of body boarding. We ate in the car, it was raining again, and then braved the elements, got changed into wetsuits, made our way over the boulders and into the sea that had gone out a long way. Thankfully Wayne and Kez looked after our jackets and the dogs and we ventured into the sea - surprisingly it was mild and not a shock to the system.

Tash first and then she went back, then me, the waves were decent but I didn't do any good boarding - no idea what's wrong with my technique, but I just don't get pushed along by the waves sadly. I felt conscious that they were all waiting on me but I'd happily have stayed out there a lot longer that the 15/20 mins that I did. But we did it so that was good.

Back to the car and got changed back into dry clothes (the dry robe is great for warmth and also as a cloak room pretty much!) and then back to the tent. 

Cricket was on so everyone relaxed with a book, or slept, I got a few beers and watched the cricket - it was a shit standard but they enjoyed themselves. Tash made dinner, butter chicken curry and rice and did it well. Wind and rain again and we decided to play cards in the van this time - walking the dogs didn't take long because it pissed down with rain again!

We did get a bit of a break with the weather so I quickly took down the awning so it didn't get damaged in the evening - we also decided to buy another side panel to make it more enclosed next time we use it.

Cards in the van was nice and it was a bit more even this time with Wayne and I making a comeback but the girls still won 3-2 for the weekend. We were all a bit tired so it was an early night and not too much drinking but that was fine with us. 

Next morning, as predicted the weather was nice and sunny, we got packed up and as we were about to make a move Tash and I decided we'd visit Saunton Sands quickly and walk Bess but Wayne and Kez wanted to get going so we said our goodbyes and agreed to catch up later to play golf depending on when we got home.

We were only at the beach for 20 mins just to say we'd been there and avoid parking charges and then we were on the road. As expected for a bank holiday Monday the traffic was pretty bad and tough going - I think I might have been caught speeding in a 60mph zone, pissed off about that but nothing I can do about it now!

We had a new Airbnb arriving today and she got a bit shirty with us about the checking in time - sill girl as she's with us all week, very odd. Wound us up a bit to be honest.

Anyway, got home about 2.45pm and unpacked etc and then I cheekily sneaked off and played Wayne at golf. I didn't have the best round but still got 34 points and hit 97 and I was disappointed with that so I know I can do so much better!

Back home for dinner and more sorting out of things and then Tash had an early night and I just watched a film and then wasted time on my phone.

A long weekend but really enjoyable, look forward to getting out in the van again soon.

Bit of nothing day

Work is quiet at the minute which means I've had an opportunity to catch up with house-keeping and such like.

Didn't do any long run (or short run for that matter) but did exercise so need to keep that going

Went out for a walk with Tash in the evening when she was back and Jack and Jodie came over for dinner after they'd been out for a spa day which they'd enjoyed - didn't have a pool or anything so was very much focused on the spa/sauna type rooms and relaxation which worked for them.

Played Monopoly Deal after their dinner and I got well and truly shafted - didn't even have a property at the end of the game - horrible!!

Knackered so had an early night in the end.

Busy weekend ahead so go prepped and sorted for that in the day too

Normal Work, nice lunch and Run Club

Being back at work this week has been okay, it's been a quiet Summer break thankfully meaning we've been able to catch up with work and tasks which is always appreciated, even had a bit of spare time to work on other projects - I've now set up an app called Notion (seeing Jack using it) which is similar Trello and might not be necessary but if it's going to help with planning things then it's worth giving it a go!

Jack was around at lunchtime so the three of us went to Summertown and had lunch together which was lovely sat in the sun and chatting - Tash made us laugh when answering Jack about coming to Summertown more for coffee she replied "I don't have time,  I work three days a week!!" Seriously?

We set out for Bicester Run club at 5.30pm and hit the usual traffic, it was that slow at one point I even got out the car to remove a burst tire from the A34! 

Run Club was quite busy - not as many people as last time I went but there were the four of us (Charlotte was there direct from work) and we did 5 mins on, 2 mins off - I was slow and at the back again, not a surprise but I did it.

Back home Charlotte and Miles came over and so did Mum and we had a nice spag bol and two bottles of lovely red wine - didn't need it and felt guilty because of exercising earlier, ah well..

Jack went off to Jodie's around 9.30pm as they have a spa day organised tomorrow which sounds lovely and the evening ended around 10.00pm when everyone else left to go home.

A nice day and good to have the kids around

A week in Cyrpus

 Been back a few days now but had a great week in Cyprus last week. We went on the Saturday morning (Me, Tash, Charlotte, Lewis and Emily) and following us was Zoe, with Niamh and Kate Millar - we met Laoisa there as she could get the train direct

Left quite early and had a good run down there although a bit of a problem for us as the van was too high for car park 5 but we sorted and it and were on our way.

The hotel was very nice and we settled in quickly - it was all inclusive and it was also adults-only which was noticeable.

In the coming days we had Jason and Sharon turn up late (after midnight) on Sunday and then all the Holdens arrive on Tuesday evening (Wayne, Kerry, Nicole, Dan, Paul and Pauline) - so all 17 were there

We relaxed during the day, sleeping, drinking, eating and messing about in the sea - that was a challenge to get into, Tash had a horrible fall on the first day when she and Charlotte tried to get in using  shortcut and badly bruised her leg for the rest of the holiday.

The weather was very sunny and very hot all week - sweating and keeping in the shade as much as possible. I played a table tennis tournament but only came second - but was happy with that. Played Lewis the following day and he beat me comfortably - didn't get to play against Wayne in the end, couldn't be bothered I don't think.

Evenings we would have dinner in the main buffet area or in booked restaurants - we managed 3 of the 4 so that wasn't too bad, Greek, Italian and Asian. Better food in those as you'd expect.

Each night we would do a round-robin announcing our highlights and lowlights from the day which was fun

We went out to Paphos one evening after lunch, just wandered around and then went to Bar Street which is their "strip" - not much to it but we also chose a shit bar to sit in but it was a night out.

The highlight of the holiday was easily the boat trip, whilst still in the UK Tash (who else?) organise a 3hr sunset booze cruise, we found the boat at 4.30pm and he let us on straight away, Sharon put her Boat Party playlist on and from the first 10 seconds we were on it - singing, dancing, drinking - we'd not left the harbour and you could tell this was going to be a great evening. 

And it was!

We set out and stopped a couple of times, first time we were diving off the boat but the current was so strong, I found that hard initially but otherwise everything was great. As the trip went on we got more drunk and the playlist was open to everyone - ah - it was amazing, we had a such a good time, everyone got totally hooked into it.

We saw the sunset and made more and more noise with our singing, even when back at the harbour at 8.00pm and everyone sat in their nice restaurants with us all singing at the top of our voices!

I wanted to stay out and go to a karaoke bar but was over-ruled so we all went back to the hotel to get changed and eat. I wasn't happy about that because I knew most of us wouldn't go back out and the opportunity had passed. About 6 of them (the kids) did go back out but they were finished by 2.30am we heard in the morning. Still, it didn't detract from such a brilliant day.

Didn't have a heavy head on any of the mornings which was a pleasant surprise, I guess we did drink (and eat) in moderation throughout the day to be fair.

So we were only there for the week and left Saturday around 7.20pm, Holdens and Millars waved us off and the airport was busy and not well organised but eventually we got the plane an hour late and back to Gatwick in the early hours, no problem getting the van and said our goodbyes with Carrolls and got home to bed about 4.30am.

Such a lovely time - really enjoyed it, even if it started off a bit rough because of my idiotic antics on Thursday night/Friday morning - I so regret that! 

Scafell Pike

The alarm went off at 5.25am as planned and we got up and sorted - made hot drinks and left Bess in the bedroom but I had doubts that she'd stay quiet in there for long, and Lewis confirmed in the evening when we returned that he had her in their bedroom not long after we'd left!

We drove over to Jack's house and got there bang on 6.30am as planned but he made us wait 15 minutes! Irritated me..but he'd not got in from the boxing event until 1.30am so fair enough. He went in the back and went straight to sleep and Tash slept in the front as I drove the next 2.5hrs up North and into the Lake District. 

The last hour of driving was painful as it was along these tiny, winding roads that just seemed so needless but then we were beside a lake and the views were stunning, I was in awe of people that were just pitched up and camping there, I definitely need to look up whether it's legal or not as it was beautiful.

We got to the car park and got sorted no problem and were on the move by 9.45am, even after 100yrds I was puffing and we had a stop a couple of times to remove layers as in the car park it was quite chilly but the walk was immediately upwards, and this was the theme for the whole hike, not once was there any level ground, it was steep uphill all the way. 

I was struggling to be honest, the sweat was pouring off me and I had to stop so many times, I just wasn't up to it, very disappointing to be so unfit, not good at all. Anyway, I trudged along slow and steady (ish) and as we progessed it got mistier as we ascended into the clouds and it got windier and colder. We were well prepared and got the layers out so it wasn't a problem, but seeing some of the people go past us I culdn't believe how little or flimsy clothes and walking shoes they were wearing.

We made it to the top after about 2.5hrs and took some photos of course and made our way down the way we came as we were on a bit of a time limit to get Jack back home as he had football in the evening but he wasn't looking forward to that as he was feeling the fatique too!

The descent wasn't too bad, but it was hard work on the knees, and we stopped at a decent point for some sandwiches and drink and then made it back to the car-park for a coffee, changeover of clothes and then back on the road to Manchester which was uneventful and they both slept again!

Got Jack back and said our goodbyes and wished him luck with footie and also a meeting with his business partners tomorrow as things aren't too rosy with R2R so there needs to be a meeting to clear the air and determine next plans there.

Tash drove to Lewis's and I got some zzzz's and we didn't spend too much time at his, said thanks and appreciated them having Bess for us, sounds like she got on well with the cats so that was a relief. I then drove us back down to Oxford and we got home and sorted around 9.45pm.

It's been a long but enjoyable weekend, we do push ourselves it has to be said, but well worth it as we're trying to live life to the max!!

Surprising Jack and time in Manchester

So we were up at 5.30am and on the road 30 mins later driving up to Manchester, Jack didn't know this but Tash wanted to turn up and surprise him at his run club. Tash wasn't well in the night and was sick a number of times and felt sorry for herself on the journey up there.

The journey was great, hardly any traffic for a long way because it was so early and we got to Media City about 8.30am, only one problem..Tash had left her running shoes in the house! So we found a Sports Direct and as soon as it opened at 9.00am she was in there getting some new ones, said she needed them anyway..yeah right!

Got to Media City square where crowds were building and Jack turned up so that was funny. I walked off with Bess as I wasn't bothered about being involved and Bess wouldn't have been able to cope either so I still did a long wander around the Quays/Dock and I was walking back I saw them doing their circuit - a lot of people involved.

I met them when they'd finished, wasn't long, only about 5km I think, we had Costa Coffee and chatted, mostly about his issues with the business and they then had to leave so Tash and I jumped into the van and drove to Knutsford. The houses on the way in (Mere) were astonishing, so much money on show! And Knutsford itself was very impressive, I was surprised for some reason, if it's somewhere Lewis and Emily are looking to move to then they could find far worse places to settle in that's for sure!

We parked up next to a nice park and had our lunch and then wandered around the town and Tash got her nails done (not one to waste time!) and I had a pint and watched the world go passed. We then set off back to Lewis's house and we had a BBQ in the garden which was nice, and finished off the evening watching some of the Olympics that is being held in Paris. 

Early night in the end because of an early start tomorrow morning - Saturday and Sunday should not be having alarms set for 5.30am!!

Latitude Festival - a (long) weekend of fun

Got sorted on the Wednesday night and up early and John & Pauline's by about 6.15am on Thursday morning and off we went. I wasn't officially off for the next two days so was on standby mode throughout but thankfully work isn't busy at the minute so "spoiler alert" I wasn't needed and was able to be relaxed the whole time.

We stopped around 8.45am at a MacDonald's and I conducted my morning meeting from there which was fine and decent internet. Got to the Henham Park location in the next hour and queued up and was given a decent space to set up which we made the most of and spread out well - it was perfect. 

So many VW campervans on show - it was like a convention. But then I think the type of event and demographic of those attending it's the sort of people that could afford these vans.

We got sorted pretty quickly and then went for a wander to see what was about - it was a big location - and we were the farthest away! It was also very busy even this early in the process - obviously over the weekend it really filled out, especially the camping area.

We were allowed into the main area to get a feel for things and did so, no music was on but the shops and bars/food stalls were all up and running and it looked decent - I think it's the biggest one we've now been to as it eclipsed Rewind.

So the weekend became a routine of breakfast, walking, drinking and listening to music and comedy. Some big acts were there and it was just great fun, weather was very hot too which obviously helped.

We didn't push ourselves to the front at many things, which was a bit of a shame as I felt we weren't in amongst all the main atmosphere but we stuck together and it was fine. 

A highlight was Mark Simmonds in the comedy tent, I'd seen clips of him on Social Media and he didn't disappoint, very sharp and quick witted with the one-liners - I loved that and so did John and Pauline. Highlights with the music were Rick Astley, Keane, Seasick Steve, Nile Rogers and Chic and of course Duran Duran who headlined on Sunday night and were absolutely brilliant - loved them. We'd even stopped drinking then so as to not need to go to the toilets and lose our spaces! Yes, it was that busy!

Disco Shed was there of course and you could also go into the woods and there were DJ sets in there.

We also managed to go into Southwold - there was a dedicated bus laid on in which we jumped on and had a walk along the sea front and ice cream on the pier - mum and family go there once a year so it was nice to see what the fuss is all about. It's a very nice seaside town actually, not at all tacky. We had a pint in the Nelson which is where they go all the time and then back to the festival - so easy.

We came back on the Monday, I did have that day off as proper holiday but it all worked out really well - long drive, about 4 hours including a brief stop for food.

We all really enjoyed it, I'd definitely be happy to go back to that one again if we decide to do a festival next year - we shall see  

Run Club Attended

So I agreed to join the run club this evening. We were late of course so missed the warm up and then ran 5mins/walked 1min. I found it tough going, but it forced me out and sees me get time and distance under my belt so can’t complain. 

Off to Latitude Festival tomorrow bright and early (6.15am) hopefully. Still sat in Bicester car park waiting for Tash to finish watching a physio presentation, but oissed off actually as I have a ton of things to do when I get home. 

Anyway, glad I did the run so hopefully build in that, but I’ve got a VERY long way to go yet!

Standlake Day 3

Okay nights sleep and then up and at em around 7.30am, by that I mean we had a coffee and relaxed listening to music and reading online. Although internet is really sketchy!

Packed up our belongings and sorted the van out quickly, such a convenience having it compared to having a tent. I don’t miss that at all!!

Went and saw Nik and Gaz and had a coffee and then made our farewells and got going home

We knew we had a busy day ahead and that was exactly what happened - we then spent about 4 hours getting everything back into the house now that the flooring was all sorted.

Charlotte and Miles arrived literally as we just finished and they then helped get the piano back - but even with the extra hands and prep we still managed to mark the floor which pissed me off a little bit.

Anyway, all done, so we had some drink and I cooked a BBQ and mum also came round so it was a nice evening.

When mum left we watched some TV and I suggested Stewart Lee - it didn't go down as well as I hoped and everyone made their excuses and went to bed then!

A good weekend - really enjoyed it.

Standlake Day 2

Weird night's sleep, hot and bursting for a wee from about 2.30am, finally gave in at 7.30am!! Not good weather sadly, overcast and drizzly which is a shame.

Got the kettle on the go and relaxed listening to music and fighting for internet! My solar battery died, I might get rid of that. Load of shit!

It’s Olivia’s first birthday today so all their side of the family are coming over around midday. Hope it brightens up as we’ve got the canoe ready to inflate.

Wandered over to Gaz and Nikki’s caravan and had sausage and bacon sandwiches which was nice and gradually family started arriving, they all turned up which was lovely.

I went and pumped up the canoe, that was quick and easy, and then we took it to the lake side and just me with Theo and Ralph went in and had a paddle about.

No one else used it when we brought it back but it was a bit of fun for them. The weather was overcast which was a massive difference compared to yesterday but it was okay I guess.

We went to the hot house for food and drink and it was a nice atmosphere and everyone just sat and chatted. Olivia was spoilt with tons of presents as you’d imagine and she enjoyed her cake! Gradually people made their way home, and Gareth and Danny had gone off to watch the Grand Prix qualifying (which I wasn’t invited to!) so I made my excuses and had an hours snooze in the van which was nice.

Had a couple of gins waiting for Tash to come back and deflated the canoe and such stuff but still no Tash so I went back to the pub and they’d gone back to the caravan. But weird she didn’t come and get me, but miffed about that.

Danny and Vics left after about an hour and we then had dinner in the caravan. Lovely steaks that we had provided. Lots of chat and didn’t get to play crib in the end but it was a lovely and enjoyable evening.

Back to Vinnie and crashed out quickly.

A good and memorable day.

Friday 19th July Standlake. Day 1

Looking forward to a nice chilled weekend at Standlake with Nikki and Gareth that started today. Busy day at work and then got over here about 5.00pm

The temperature is 30 degrees, very hot and soaking wet from sweat, but not going to complain as we’ve not had much sunshine to enjoy

Sorted the pitch and van out quickly enough, down by the stream this year and then spent the afternoon and night at their caravan chatting and catching up. I’d not eaten all day so the beers were going right to my head which I was enjoying and welcomed the fuzziness of drunkenness with open arms!

Sorted out Airbnb when internet allowed. Looks like we’ve got a regular lined up which is good for earnings! Shan’t complain about getting booked up so far in advance!

Lovely chilli for dinner and then played Scrabble, Gaz won quite comfortably and Tash and I drew. That was fun to test ourselves! Night finished about 10.45pm.

Got our bed etc sorted with usual military precision and snuggled down. Tash felt a bit funny and blamed the cheese!! Yeah right.

Golf and Euro Cup Final in Manchester

Busy weeekend!

After nothing but jobs on Saturday it was time to get some gold in on Sunday

This weekend it was the Pete King Trophy and Captains Day with loads of the club members all playing.

I was with Julio and Flanners and we tee'd off at 8.30amand it was an incredibly sunny day, so lovely. Julio was off to a flying start and played really well, I thought I was less so but as we finished the round I'd realised I'd hit my lowest round (89) and when they calculated my points it was 40 meaning I was in with a decent shout of actually winning!

After some waiting whilst it was all worked out with the other cards I found out I came second, the winner had 41 points - ah well. Got some balls and a £30 voucher to go with my £10 voucher from last month, but crucially for me was beating 90 shots barrier - chuffed to bits with that. 

Once that was all out of the way I got home as quickly as possible, even though the bridge into Wolvercote was closed because of a gas leak, quick shower and we were then on the road to Manchester! Quick detour to Bicester and dropped Bess off. Decent run up the M6 and then into the Salford Quays area, they're working on doing it up and have made a decent job on it to be fair

We parked up and then met Jodie and Jack for food and a drink, Noah turned up and then Lewis and Emily who were celebrating their 4th anniversary. Had nice street food and a beer and then went into the bar to watch the football, we didn't have seats but it was fine, I was happy standing. It got busy and there was live music and I did have a few pints!

This was the final of the Euros and we were playing Spain, they were favourites, they've been the best team, but we have talent so were not just going to turn up and roll over. Interesting game but we were so negative and defensive, went a goal down but equalised and the place erupted, it was so good to experience that.

But we sat back and tried to see out a draw but conceded the winner in the 96th minute - very disappointing. Hardly heart-breaking but very frustrating that we didn't play better or more expansive football - it felt the team and players were being shackled and held back.

So that was that!

Finished our drinks and went back to Lewis and Emily's (just me and Tash) and got to bed around midnight after some nibbles.

It was good that we came up here, Tash is a bit down and concerned about her health at the minute so she wanted some time with her boys - not referring to me!

Weekend diary entry

Saturday

Tash went off to yoga in the morning and I just did jobs as I wanted to get sorted out. Lewis and Emily made the most of having a lie in. We then had nice scrambled egg with smoked salmon, which Lewis seems to always enjoy making before we then went out to Charlotte to collect Lewis's car and Natasha went off to the baby shower for Victoria at the Jolly Boatman pub.

Lewis, Emily and I went off to Blenheim Palace and wandered around the grounds, showing them where Charlotte works and things like that. The weather was very hot again and we had a nice ice cream treat from Lewis and then lots of walking, we went to the victory column which I don’t think I’ve done before.

We parked quite a way away, so I offered to go and get the car whilst Lewis and Emily could wander around Woodstock and take in some of the sites and shops that are there, which I think Emily appreciated as she’s had enough of walking, I might be wrong!

The baby shower finished around the same time, and we all got back to Wolvercote at the same time and receded to have some drinks and nibbles and I got the pizza oven on the gate go

Had a bit of a nightmare, because at one point, Zoe crunched down on a snail that had obviously got into the oven And had died once I sent it off and falling in her pizza. I feel terrible.

Had a few drinks and then jumped in the hot tub.

Beers were flowing and it was so nice they stayed as long as they did, they left at 8.30pm which was great.

I then watched the champions league final between Man City and Inter Milan but it wasn’t very good at all and the coverage on BT sport was appalling. Man City won which is nice for them. I didn’t care either way, the football on show and the cheating wasn’t much fun.

Carried on drinking and then got the Shisha pipe out and Tash and I just relaxed in the warm night air until after midnight. Such a great day.

Sunday

Woke up with a bit of a heavy head, but nothing too serious or concerning so got ready and went to golf for 8:30 am. Today there was myself, Wayne, Paul and Robbie Baressi. It was a slow start, but my rounds got better and better as I went along and by the end of the day I scored my best ever round of 91, which is 23 over par, Wayne hit 90 and was really pissed off and yet I hit 91 and was absolutely delighted.

My round included three pars and one birdie so not bad at all.

The weather was absolutely boiling hot, the Sun beating down, and you can smell the grass, being scorched earth that herself, didn’t put us off, and I went home to leave straight away so that we could go punting on the river.

Zoe, Liam and Georgia met us down at the college, and both Georgia and Liam had never been punting before, so that was nice to take them out and they enjoyed it but neither of them wanted to have a go but that was fine although it was bloody hot work.

When we finished Natasha and I went back to our house to sort Bessie out and I had a quick snooze for an hour before we then went over to Zoe‘s for some food which was nice and she enjoying enjoyed entertaining us.

After Zoe's we went back home and sorted things out ahead of the weekend and tidied the house et cetera and I did loads of searching on the Internet for a new golf club because my three wood snapped earlier in the day. Had quite an early night as we were both tired, but it’s been such a lovely long weekend, really enjoyed it.

Manchester Marathon

So..it was mentioned on the family Whatsapp group that Jack had signed up for the Manchest Marathon in April 2025...did we want to sign up? Tash and I agreed immediately and then Lewis and Charlotte followed suit. Even John and Pauline Bampton have also agreed to it. 

So I need to get into training because even though it’s not until April 2025 it will soon come around and it’s obviously going to be very challenging. 

I hope I don’t come to regret say yes, but it’s good to have something in the pipeline to aim for. 

Will see how the training goes. I went out for a run on the same day but haven’t done since, and that was 2 weeks ago!!

England and Euro 2024

England have reached another final, they’ve done well under Gareth Southgate even if the football itself has been dull and uninspiring

They’ve made the most of a favourable draw and on Wednesday they beat the Netherlands 2-1 with a first half performance that was more entertaining and what supporters want. 

It was our 31st wedding anniversary so we’d been out for a meal earlier and then watched the match in the White Hart, it was a good atmosphere but reminded me why I don’t like watching with other people as you had this fat idiot shouting “YELLOWS!!” every now and then. Mad. 

So it’s the final on Sunday and Tash is a bit emotional at the minute so wants to see the boys meaning we will travel up after my golf day so won’t get there until about 5.00pm. It’s also Lewis and Emily’s 4th anniversary! Time flies. 

Belfast - Day 1

Up bright and early at 5.00am and on the road by 5.30am. Easy journey to Luton airport and parking/transfer was very smooth.

Coffee and croissant for breakfast and then we saw we had a 2 hour delay. Pissed off. Deciding what to do and then half an hour later I heard our gate being called. Went and checked and it wasn’t a mistake…we were on time. Really odd. I suspect it might have caught some people out but never mind that, we’re on the plane and ready to go. Phew.

Quick flight, about 55 minutes and through to get our car only to realise that it was booked to pick up at City airport, we’d arrived at International airport! Luckily, same company were based here so we waited behind some people that had done the same and then we managed to sort it out and get a car, bit of messing about as I didn’t have my credit card so cost us a bit more as Rash had to be named additional driver just to use her credit card, absolute joke in my opinion

Got on the road and headed North. Got to the town we were aiming for and parked up and then walked along the coastal path following Komoot! That’s such a good app.

The views were lovely but it wasa shame that it wasn’t sunnier. It wasn’t raining or anything, just overcast. We had a picnic in view of the causeway and then made our way over. It’s an odd area because there not much to it. Very interesting and fascinating how it was form and we managed to get loads of photos, a little surprising that they don’t protect it more and rope off some areas but people were allowed wherever they wanted.

After a bit we moved on and followed the trail up a steep slope and made our way home which was a lot quicker, even made it onto the beach. Not allowed in the sea here because of the rip tides and it was obvious why, very strong and powerful waves.

Back to the car and decided on the coastal route back with the aim of stopping at a pub along the way. Stuck behind the slowest and most cautious driver for an hour, tried my patience as I couldn’t get past them! And to compound matters, there wasn’t a pub along the way…I thought I was in Ireland. Very odd.

So we arrived in Belfast and found our hotel and then found a parking space nearby that was reasonable, although didn’t strike me as particularly secure but it worked for us.

Malmaison Hotel was nice, not spectacular to be honest but no complaints, other than our blinds wouldn’t close. Got sorted and down to the bar for 7.30pm and then our meal at 8.00pm. Waiter was “zany” but harmless I guess. For was good.

Decided to go out afterwards and went to The Garrick that was a traditional Irish pub and typically there was a 4 piece group in the corner playing fiddles etc. had a couple of drinks and savoured the atmosphere before moving on and finding another pub to try. Were planning on a jazz club but it looked dead, so went next door for one drink and that was good in there.

Left and went back to hotel for one more drink but the bar was closed…11.00pm. A shame but we probably didn’t need any more really.

Off to bed.

A good day, eventful even by our standards!!

Mount Snowden

Up very early, 4.30am, last minute cleaning and then jumped in the van and drove the 45mins to Snowden. Lovely drive although was quite dark and couldn’t appreciate all the scenery.

Got to the pre-booked carpark, luckily we had booked it because there was an attendant there even at that time.

Got sorted, worked out our starting path and set off. After about 25mins it started raining and got heavier and with the wind it was horizontal so I went to get my waterproof trousers and they weren’t in my rucksack! It was then I’d remembered that I’d thrown them away after Kili climb…bugger. With the amount of rain my hiking trousers didn’t have a chance, onwards we went and it was quite tough.

Enjoyed it but sadly the weather was nothing like the bright sunshine and clear skies we’d had the previous 2 days, it was windy, raining and very low cloud cover. As we got higher the less we saw and the wetter we got and the windier it became.

Anyway, we got to the summit and visibility was about 5 yards, utterly pointless two and a half hours walk!! So we made our way down and my clothing was sodden, as was Tasha’s, the waterproofs couldn’t cope with this amount of rain. Made our way down and started to see people making their way up, when asked what it was like we didn’t sugarcoat our answers!!

Walking around the lakes was nice but Tash had had enough and was Miss Grumpy Pants! We got to the van and it was still pissing it down so we grabbed our dry clothes and went to the public toilets to change. Got back in the van and set off for our 4hr journey home.

Stopped at MacDonald’s which was good and listened to Jon Wards podcast which we enjoyed.

An end to a lovely weekend, really enjoyed it with the kids, shame it felt like it went by so quickly and we didn’t have more time. Lovely place hidden away.

Hopefully, Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike will be kinder weather.

Jacks Birthday present - house cleaning!

Woke up quite early and got ready and sorted and at 8.00am we set off for Jacks house. He wasn’t going to be in but that was the surprise!

Made good time and arrived at 10.40am and got straight to cleaning his house. 

I worked mainly in the kitchen and Tash did the rest of the house. 

Hard work!! It wasn’t “student filthy” and wasn’t too desperate but it was a mess and needed a deep clean which I think we more or less achieved for them. 

To cut a long story short we were there for 4 hours until 3.00pm. Knackered but we did make a good dent in things and cleaned it quite well. I hope both Jack and Noah are pleased with our effort. I really don’t know many parents that would do the same to be honest. 

We then made our way over to Lewis and Emily’s house and went for a nice walk. Lovely to catch up with them. Only stayed about 2 hours and when we got back from the walk we left straight away so we could get sorted at the campsite. 

And what a campsite!! We’re in the grounds of a manor house. It’s lovely. I’m typing this listening to music, Tash asleep, having drunk loads of gin and tonic and now almost a bottle of wine to myself. Back in the camping scene, gotta love it. So easy and convenient. Hopefully we will make good use of the van this summer. 

Jack sent mum a message thanking her for her work today. He and Jodie had gone to a spa locally and spoilt themselves which is great. 

Have had a nice day. Missed out on an Oxford City ex players day today though so sad about that. I’m sure I’d have enjoyed it. Ah well. Family comes first and all that!!

Early morning golf

Set the alarm early for this morning and woke up before it around 5.45am and was on the way in the van 30mins later!

Had the course to myself and did okay. Slow start because I was stiff and hadn’t warmed up. I tried a couple of things I’d watched on YouTube last night and it helped.  I lost a few balls, what a surprise, and only managed 9 holes. When leaving a lot more people had arrived and I was gone by 8.15am. 

A decent start to the morning and it’s the first of the year where I’ve been able to get down and practice nice and early. Need to make a habit of that and get my score down. 

Back home and the guy to fit the water meter turned up and that was sorted in 20mins so that was that. I’d cancelled my blood donation appointment because I thought I needed to be in all morning so was a bit pissed off about that. 

Worked the rest of the day, nothing much exciting to tell about that. It’s a little bit quiet because of Easter Half term and we’ve got up to date but it won’t last sadly. 

Mum came over in the evening and we had a really good spag bol and a good catch up. Trifle for pudding!! Yum. 

Watched a bit of tv in the evening but I wasn’t in the mood and the wifi connection is shit so gave up. 

Off to the office tomorrow for a company day and was planning to play golf in the morning but it’s a bit too much so I’ll do it Friday morning instead. 

A decent day all told. 

Jack Birthday celebrations

Nice weekend as it was an early celebration for Jack's birthday which is obviously next week but he will be in Manchester.

Sunday we had family round in the afternoon and before that Tash and I went to Jodie's mum's (Helen) house to meet their dog - Coco - who is a dalmation puppy, 13 weeks and brown. Daft and excitable, Coco, not Helen, and was good fun to go round there. Only there for half an hour but it's a nice house and all things seem to be good

Got back in good time and sorted for all the family coming round and it was a really nice afternoon. Weather was too windy to go outside

Nothing else to report - will still post this anyway

Motivation (or lack of)

Really struggling at the minute. I’m just wasting time and not doing anything. We’ve been back from the Kili climb for 4 weeks now and all I’ve done is eat, drink and not exercise. 

Work is ticking along but even that I’m struggling with more than normal. Tash has gone out to see friends this evening and all I’ve done is watch tv, play on my phone and eat x2 crème eggs!! I intended to go to the gym but just couldn’t be bothered. 

I need something to aim for or motivate me. We have skiing next week so I’m looking forward to that and seeing friends tomorrow and playing golf so lots lined up, but I just feel lacking energy and a bit “low”. Not sad or depressed, just feel like doing nothing. Perhaps still on a comedown from the experience last month?

Anyway, I need to snap out of it so writing this and feeling sorry for myself and looking stupid might give me the kick I need. Let’s see!

Monday 19th Zanzibar Day 1

Woke up before the alarm and got up slowly and quick shower, final stretching of the bag to get all our stuff into them. Keep thinking the zipper is going to beak any time soon. So far so good though.

Very quick breakfast and then into the people carrier to the airport which was nice and comfy after rattling around in the land cruiser for the last 4 days!

Tasha had also managed to sort out a taxi from Zanzibar airport to the hotel which seemed reasonable and efficient too. Fingers crossed.

Okay, so Arusha Airport was an experience, a good one I hasten to add. It’s tiny, the checkin lounge was under a tent and everything was very basic, very amusing. Certainly explained why we were unable to check in online yesterday and this morning!! Went through no problem and the departure lounge was under corrugated iron roofing.

Sat looking through the PhotoCircle photos that people had uploaded and got mine ready to upload when I get a decent internet connection. I’m quite pleased with the ones I’ve got to share and I hope the guys in the group like them too. As usual I’ve loads to upload!!

We sat and waited a while as fellow travellers filtered through and then we were called 30mins early and took off at 9.00am instead of 9.20am. Result!

Now to relax for an hour or so listening to music.

Journey was fine. Loved listening to my tunes, back to what I know!! The flight was less than an hour and getting through security was as you might expect..very easy. Our driver was waiting and we loaded the car and settled down for a 90mins drive.

First impressions are that it’s more “built up” than Arusha. The roads are better quality as are the buildings, it just feels like the standard of living is better here. Mind you we’ve only been in the car 45mins. It does look a nice place.

In my mind, for whatever reason, I imagine spices and Istanbul type country and buildings and life. It’s just the name, Zanzibar, to me sounds so exotic. We’ll see soon enough won’t we? They want tipping more at the minute, could be an issue, we’ve no cash other than to pay this taxi exactly the amount I drew out yesterday, that was fortunate!!

Even the street stalls and markets look better quality.

Sunday 18th. Safari day 4

Woken up by the alarm at 7.00am, not the best sleep as I think the beef curry didn’t 100% agree with me last night. Got ready and had a nice breakfast and then we’re off again at 8.30am for our last day. We’re going back to descend into the crater which should be good.

I’ve opted not to sit at the back of the cruiser today!!

We drove back through Karatu which had market day setting up and was busy with so many motorcycles and tuk tuks zipping around carrying passengers. Will have to look it up in google maps street view to show people and remember myself.

90mins to get to the crater and a bit of a wait to get in, stretched our legs and got congratulated for climbing Kili

Lion walking amongst the cruisers using them for shade. I could have reached out and touched it! Then another walked by us and there were four in total!

And then really heart in mouth excitement as we watched a zebra come away from the pack and a female stalk it. Complete silence as we watched and waited, gripping. Then the lion was on the run but what anyone hadn’t noticed is that she was hunting a warthog instead. A brief chase and then pumba was safe.

And the zebra realising its perilous position made its escape too in a very circuitous route back to the herd!! That was good.

Onwards and we went to the lake where there were flocks of flamingos and then a bit further on we saw a mother and baby hippo swimming to rejoin a load of others.

We then made it to the picnic area which was lovely. We did see a rhino from a very long distance. Enjoyed the picnic, we were warned of eagles swooping down for food and stayed in the cruiser but Peter sat outside so I thought “why not!” and that was good. Loads of birds visiting me but none brave enough to swipe my food.

Leaving there we started our way back and then spend 10-15mins working out how to get through a really tricky bit of road that was deeply mud. But he worked it out in the end having watched a couple of young lads get through in different ways.

Carried on for a bit and saw other things including a group of warthogs and larger gazelle and water buffalo. Getting nearer the end we came across another watering hole that clearly is used by the elephants as we counted at least 12 and there was also a rhino in the distance although clearer this time so we were happy.

One last bit of excitement was waiting and watching a Land Cruiser being towed out of mud it had got stuck in! Didn’t take too long and then we were able to pass it on a safer footing.

And that was it. We made our way to the ascent route and by now I was really struggling to stay awake and nodded off for most of the route back to the main gate. A bit disappointed by that because it was the last part of the safari and I slept through it, I can sleep any time!! But I wouldn’t have seen any more than I’d already seen, it’s just the principle, but I couldn’t keep my eyes open for trying.

So we’re on our way home now, stopped in Karatu again and this time I got some money out and we now have about 130km drive back to Arusha and get our bags from the Mount Meru hotel and then get dropped off at the new one for tonight. Hopefully that’ll be okay. But it’s an early leave in the morning.

The safari has been excellent, I mentioned comparison with Kenya and Tash reminded me or the tree tops hotel, the lake and boat trip etc but the quantity of animals here topped Kenya so we’ve had the best of both worlds with our two safaris!! How lucky are we??

Now to get flights to Zanzibar and relax and eat and drink as much as possible before returning to the sad reality of normal life.

Taking ages to get back. T5. Kisongo was a busy place at 6.30pm. 13km to Arusha. Everyone is tired. No sure what we’re doing about dinner!

We arrived back at Mount Meru hotel to collect our bags and had a slight concern when he couldn’t find mine but averted when I got involved, there was a lot all over the place.

Then on to our Njiro Legacy hotel that felt like in the middle of nowhere and a rough part because of the turn into the road it was on and it was all dark and we tooted at the gate and it was behind a gated area and was perfectly fine.

Said our thankyous and goodbyes to Peter, who’s been great.

Chucked our bags into our rooms and straight down the bar area for a few drinks and a pizza each. That took an age to appear and the girls took the opportunity to get cleaned up. We stayed and had a few beers and cleaned our their supply of 660ml beers!! The fridge and electric kept turning off which made it all authentic.

Decided to go to bed and get our bags sorted for the flight tomorrow. Another long but brilliant day.

I have really enjoyed the safaris, now for some proper R&R in Zanzibar

Saturday 17th. Safari day 3

Didn’t get our wake up call so bit of a rush to get ready and out for 7.00am breakfast. Nice selection and got our packed lunches and then on our way by 7.45am.

Throughput the night we heard various animals including Jackals and Hyenas, and all joking aside, twice I woke up genuinely wondering that the animal was but it was Tasha snoring!!

Set out and soon got the roof opened and made our way to a petrol station in the middle of the Serengeti!!

In the way we saw 5 hot air balloons which looked impressive and will the bright sunshine they made for some good photos.

Today we’re searching for the leopard, Peter said there was one spotted (ha ha!) yesterday but it was too far to travel as we’d have been getting back in darkness. So let’s see.

We are heading back to the crater today so another long day in the Land Cruiser ahead. Which I don’t mind. I’m loving this.

Stopped at a busy section and there was a lion just relaxing in a tree at least 100m away, how anyone saw that is anyone’s guess, very sharp eyes to spot it. Unless it’s a common place for that particular lion. Looked great and got good photos.

We continued on our way and then paused by another keep and they’d found a leopard in a tree almost the same as the lion. This time it was a lot harder to see and was more of a silhouette but as it moved you could zoom in with my camera and make out its spotted leg. A long way away but we can say we saw it. Hopefully find one that’s closer and clearer as we continue, it’s only 9.10am!!

Wee stop for everyone in the middle of the road and could hear things in the grass.

Wildebeest cantering along at distance and then crossed the road right in front of us to rejoin a few others higher in the hill

CB radio crackling with voices and static as the guides all communicated with each other providing updates and information on sightings. Or stopping passing vehicles to exchange information too.

And onwards we continued.

Standing up as much as possible to challenge myself and view things and taking it all in. Hard on the bumpy and uneven tracks. But great fun. Aching!!

I keep reminding myself that I am in the Serengeti on safari and how to explain this when we get home. It’s dreamlike but real at the same time. I’m actually here!!

Bit of excitement a few times but false alarms. It’s now 11.25am and it’s been a less fruitful day. No complaints though.

Outcrops of rock dotted here and there making for dramatic views.

Pride rock. Few lions and then thousands of zebra all grazing and then even better was a male and female lion just laying there watching them. Utterly mesmerizing!!

On we went back towards the main gate for our picnic but then saw a hyena on its own which I was pleased about. No photo but binoculars made it a clear view. Just driving along you see lions sat there panting away and gazelle quite close by keeping a wary eye on them.

Back to Nani gate/rock for picnic again and a quick ascent to a lovely viewpoint of the plains in all directions. Then back in the cruiser to make our way back to the crater. The roof was down now so I’m guessing Peter means businesse!

Straight away we saw a massive group of zebras, tens of thousands

More lions and then 8 hyenas lounging in a watering hole. That was good. They’re weird creatures and how the Lion King seemed to sum them up properly

Peter then put his foot down and we sped through the remaining miles. Must admit the tiredness hit me and I snoozed a lot. We did another viewing of the crater and then soon we were at the main gate and looking for our accommodation.

Looking forward to that because I am absolutely filthy dirty, Tasha just took a photo and I look like I’ve been down a coal mine. Must admit I thought the lodge was closer but it’s another 45mins drive.

A 45min drive well spent, we’ve arrived and it’s beautiful. An absolute paradise over looking a mountain range and is obviously some sort of spa retreat. Had a beer by the pool and relaxed. No pressure or hurry to do anything. Really nice to just read a book or update this diary and do nothing with time on our hands. It’s often felt a bit rushed to do things and it’s nice to have time this evening.

Made our way back to our accommodations and got ready and then back to the main lounge area for drinks and then dinner which was a buffet and was fine.

Couple more drinks relaxing and chatting and watching Man City v Chelsea and then to bed around 10.00pm

A really good and enjoyable day and night. Later start tomorrow as breakfast is for 8.00an.

Friday 16th. Safari day 2

Breakfast and packed lunch

Ngorongoro National park on way to Serengeti

Don’t pronounce the N. It’s the sound the cattle bells made that the Masai tribe looked after and we’re moved on.

Driving along a tight dirt track we passed a couple of jeeps broken down on the side or in ditches

Stopped at a viewpoint of the crater…OMFG…absolutely stunning view. 16km wide. Lush grassland and rhinos and elephants grazing. Looked amazing.

We continued along the road and Peter pulled over and picked someone up with a head gasket and other items as another CK vehicle had broken down!!

It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness. Burial stone

Got around the top of the crater and turned a corner and then the Serengeti Plains just stretched out as far as the eye could see. Arcadia trees with their distinctive umbrella shape clumped together made it magical.

Masai village dotted around.

Sometimes it looked like the Yorkshire Dales the roads and the greenery. Quite funny really

Giraffes at the roadside. Zebra in background loads. Made a great spot. Busy with jeeps

Dust kicked up by the Land Cruisers and jeeps made it all the more dramatic. I kept my window open for thought. Couldn’t see many times.

Masai by roadside selling bottles of honey made in the mountain side.

Along the plains we saw thousands of wildebeests grazing in readiness for their migration. Spectacular sight

Mingling with them were zebra and Thompson Gazelle. So cool to see all this.

The shepherds and goat herders young and old all carry a thin stick. So cliched with their blankets draped over their shoulders but they all do it. Very “same” look

Road is a nightmare. So bumpy and dusty. About 100km on it!! 🤣🤣

100s and 100s of storks circling overhead

We reached a boundary between the two parks after 100km and stopped for photos and then proceeded into the Serengeti National park. I thoughts we’d been in it already!!

Zebra lean on each other for shade.

A bit further along we came across three lions just chilling near the roadside. We were so close, incredible. Overhead here vultures circling. Got some incredible close up photos.

So odd seeing them up close and personal like this and so close to all the zebras not more than 50m away.

Saw a male lion under a bridge in the shade

More giraffe and we made it to the gate for lunch.

Set out again and then the whole plain was stretching out in every direction literally as far as the eye could see. A tree here and there with vultures sat in it. Two more lions.

But just deep green grassland which became less green as we moved away from water. And the dust trails of land cruisers. I absolutely loved it.

More travel around. Hippos and crocodile ostriches and loads more.

We could see rain was coming in and Peter showed no sign of let up and kept going down these winding trails until around 6.00pm we came into sight of the tent camp and that’s exactly what it was. At first glance it looked very rustic but it was much nicer.

We had an intro and then went to our tents and had to have a bucket of hot water connected so as to have a shower. That was amusing but it worked and we were cleaned up in two buckets after having to shout “more water please!”

Big proper bed and some electric lights but anything to charge there was a point at the main area so used that overnight.

Off to dinner and Peter joined us, food was great and filling and by 8.00pm we’d all had enough and went to bed. Had internet out here so wasted time on social media instead of my diary which I regret.

Really, really enjoyed today. Great fun all round.