Health updates first, as always: This past week has not been a good one overall. I have felt very lethargic throughout the week and debated whether to still travel at the end of the week (details of that below). I have also had a sluggish sensation all week, alongside unusual pain above my groin - similar to that first felt in the BC world. My next 3-monthly blood test is in one week, so I decided to wait to get that, see what the results are, then determine what may be next. A concerning period and a reminder that what is going on is not really in anyone’s control, even with the meds; now a case of wait and see.

Whilst that was unfolding, I still forged ahead and done a bike ride on Monday, followed by a long walk on Tuesday. That was 13:24, which was slow compared to the previous ones, but understandable, when considering how I was feeling during the past week. I did not fit any other activities in, like that, due to the travel plans at the end of the week. Slightly more attic clearance went on, but lighter / quicker for that one. Sandra and I went to Alanna’s on Wednesday to have some food and celebrations, ahead of my birthday, but we did not stay as long as usual, as the lethargy was very evident that day. Nice to ‘celebrate’ my birthday with them.

Thursday was a dump run, for the attic items removed over the past couple of weeks, followed by a hair cut, then packing for the planned trip to Holland. Then the final aspects of the pre-travel plans, which included Sandra and I discussing whether to go ahead. We decided to give it a go, with her maybe having to drive over during the weekend to pick me up, if needed (thankfully, it was not). We had a meal out on Thursday with two of my friends who were travelling in the ‘history-enthusiasts’ group.

We had a very early start on Friday morning, and had to be at the Chunnel for 05:00 hours. Nine of us travelled to Europe for the start of a history filled weekend. I was uncomfortable on Friday, during the 4.5 hour minibus journey, but the pain and discomfort did ease a little, as the weekend unfolded. A quick breakdown of the weekend was:

Friday - Nijmegen (plus surrounding villages) and Arnhem, where we focused on the successful German reaction to the Allied Market Garden operation. Some of the group had not been before, but my narration of events also provided a few unknown elements to the whole group. We stayed in a very nice hotel that night, with great food, even better company and lots of enjoyment.

Saturday - Militracks to hunt down the 3 Tiger tanks that were in attendance. I have been there multiple times before, but to see the Tiger II run, was a remarkable experience indeed. With the help of Kevin Wheatcroft (ahead of the trip) and Bruce Crompton (on the day), some of us got behind the fence line and were able to have a 90-minute fest of vehicle enjoyment.

Sunday - We made our way back to Calais, but via Breda for their Panther tank, Hazelbrouck for extensive (and not so well known) V1 launch complex, then a short stop at la Coupelle for the intended V2 launch site.

A superb weekend spent with close and trusted friends, who helped to make my birthday weekend a truly memorable one indeed. The downside to that was, this was the first birthday in 40 years that Sandra and I were apart. Difficult in normal circumstances, but emotional within the current situation. We had an emotional catch up on Saturday evening and I am grateful for her iron clad support during these times, especially with the week leading up to this.

Thanks to everyone for the support of these Blogs, plus the very long list of birthday wishes; you have my sincere thanks and appreciation. (this week’s photo shows the 9 of us in the hotel on my birthday, where 2 further friends joined us there).

Best regards
Peter