When is an adventure not an adventure…..

what was my living room ;-(

Firstly, Happy New Year to you all. I hope it brings you many happy adventures of your own.

Now I’m not too sure that I should be making this entry, no not because I am a little squiffy – because that would prevent me from completing almost half of my regular communications in life…. No it’s because it has become apparent that quite a few people don’t believe the adventure has started.  A couple of people have asked when it will begin, and another has refused to read this blog stating, and I quote, “you’re not there yet”.

Now to me, this little foray into another unknown began the day I wrote to (stalked) the Director of Services on the Falkland Islands and suggested he give me job;  but that my friends  is another story altogether….

My point is though, that getting to this stage – 4 days before departure, has almost been enough of an adventure for one lifetime.

First there was the attempt to get physically fitter – Mmmmm despite the amazing efforts of a highly qualified and rather special team, it became apparent that I am officially allergic to exercise!

Then there were the (several) leaving celebrations. The final one in Birmingham climaxed on this particular high.

Sorry that I can’t give you full details but needless to say, the post traumatic support group is currently being established for all those involved. I am very concerned that I will miss it and have no idea what long term mental scarring I will suffer as a result!

Self-mutilation has also occurred with the lobbing off of over 6” of hair

… and yes there is some level of regret there, especially as every morning I need to ask myself the same question –‘have I  slept with my finger in the plug socket or what?!!’.

And then came the leaving of my home of 8 years. All I am going to say is that in those last few days there was lots of grunting, quite a bit of pushing, thrusting and forcing things into tight gaps; lots of sweating and heavy breathing and to be frank, a little smidgen of contortionism going on - I put quite a strain on a few men’s backs and knees I can tell you!

Obviously I am talking about them carrying my belongings down 2 flights of narrow stairs, you dirty minded fiends! But in all seriousness the guys who got my stuff into storage were simply gems. And there are also 3 other very special people who took time out to become intimately acquainted with my bits and bobs.  In fact when I look back I realise that between Carol, Kirsty and Afshin there was never a day in the 10 days before leaving when one of them wasn’t by my side either helping my pack my belongings or simply making sure I had food and a place to stay. Just the most amazing friends ever.  As are all the rest who helped in one way or another, for example Ella who gave me all the packing boxes I ever needed – I’ve simply been blessed.

I am however a little disconcerted that this is all I amount to in life…..

My worldly possessions

And I’m also a little aggrieved that my Wizz product hasn’t arrived. Now I’m not going to say too much however I was delighted when a friend found a solution to my future toilet problem ( http://www.whizproducts.co.uk/en/). I was looking forward to practicing in the shower like it advises, but as I’m now back in my parental home, I don’t think my mum will be too pleased if I start pissing up the shower cubical wall!! (btw, I have never actually asked why/how Alex knows about these things – some things are best left unsaid!!)

And so now here I am, back with my family, my worldly possessions contained within 125sq Ft, writing my last entry from the UK before going to France for my 2 day briefing on Sunday. I have said my fond goodbyes to the city that has twice been my home. But I haven’t said goodbye to the many friends I have made there, no for them just the heartfelt words.......…………

PUT YOURSELVES AS BLOODY FOLLOWERS!!!

Love

XxX