Bonjour

We're two days away from sailing home after our latest "tour" as Paul likes to call them. Its been great, but as usual I'm ready to go home.

We've travelled a long way, from Santander to Cadiz, along the coast as far as Valencia, then up to the Pyrenees and through France to Brittany. We're sailing home from Roscoff. I've finally got the hang of driving the van, I did multiple hill starts in Brest today, and have survived down some very little roads. It hasn't come naturally; I'm somebody that takes a lot of practise to master any practical skill. Sometimes I lose patience with the process and give up before I get there which is a fault I probably need to work on. I wouldn't dare drive the van on my own yet, but I'm a lot better. I even drove it onto our pitch and to the top of our levelling ramps, before collapsing in an emotionally exhausted heap.

I've managed a bit of cycling, building up gently and avoiding anything too strenuous. My op was 12 weeks ago now, though, so I shall try to claw some fitness back when we're home. There will be some serious yoga needed. 

I've been so impressed with the Spanish and French attitude to fitness. I'm aware that the climate is very much in their favour, however they are out in force. All age groups. Walking, power walking, cycling, skating, jogging, outdoor gyms and dance sessions. It's a real revelation. I know that, if you're reading this, you're already of the same mindset, but folks in the UK need to get on board the activity train. Move it or lose it.

Today marks one year since Dad died. I can't believe the big hole he left in my life, especially as I avoided spending time with him for decades. I have had a painful realisation that I need to do what matters, not put it off. I should have taken him for more drives in the car (Helen's car), found a time or a way. It was one of his few pleasures in the last years. He had told me so much about Portugal, and the places he recommended us visiting. I was going to phone him when we were there, to tell him of the places we'd seen and the swordfish that I ordered because he said it was good. I kept putting it off. Wrong time of day, about to go out, too tired... And then it was too late, and I lost the chance to speak to him ever again. Don't put the important things off, do them now. In my book, there's nothing more important than your family. Don't miss the chance to show them how much you love them.