Day 255 - There Ain't Nothing Like The Mighty Quins

Sunday December 27th

Finally took my lardy arse out for a run and got a good 11 miles in with Neil. Unfortunately my big toe is playing up and I hobbled around all day after that. Punishment for lack of exercise and over indulgence.

Drove up to St Margarets and joined in the pre-match parties before heading off to Twickenham to watch Harlequins v Wasps. Very impressive - 76,000 filled the stadium, 3 X Factor finalists (Ellen was impressed), an eagle soaring in from the roof top to deliver the match ball and fireworks. The match was close and then a fine evening at the Thrumbles to finish off a long day.

Day 107 - The Referee's a W*****

Saturday August 1st

I cannot believe it's August already. Suddenly the end of my retirement is in focus and there is much to do. I spent lots of time last week on preparing my "Portfolio of Evidence" for next year and have been attempting test papers. I seem to be stuck on 89%.

Early drive up to St Margarets for our marathon Saturday. Had a giant lunch with the Thrumbles and took the boys and Alice off to Reading for the match. We really enjoyed it. The ground is very tight and we were right behind the Reading goal for the 1st half and saw loads of action. Unfortunately all 4 goals were scored the other end but we had a good time. Alice and Ted's first game in England.

On to Charles for more food. Got there at around 7 and tucked into rib of beef with the whole family and M&D. It was very quick and didn't get to talk much. Alice and Ted were full of chat but fell asleep on the way home. Last night on an airbed.

Day 86 - St Margarets Fair

Saturday July 11th

Brilliant day today as we drove up to St Margarets and met up with all our old friends.

Started with the Thrumbles for a cup of tea and to admire their new bathroom. Bumped into Mike and Rosie outside the house, taking their girls to ballet and went to have lunch with them. St Margarets has transformed into a real boutique community. Lots of little shops, cafes, delis. Really great atmosphere and I thoroughly enjoyed my late morning fry up. Their three girls are very very sweet and Mike comes down to Winchester to fish so hope to see more of him.

Walked into Richmond to check out the chairs in Habitat. A little disappointing so headed back for the afternoon at the fair. Saw JP and had a swift chat but he was very busy with the 5-a-side tournament. Saw the Hoyles and Dalys so got the full house. Ended up in the Turk's Head for a few pints (as per usual). Turns out Phil's sister lives round the corner from our new house and we're going camping with them on the Isle of Wight in a couple of weeks.

Days like this it feels good to come back. This is where we are from. This is who we are.