Thursday 5th June 2025

I was in the Air Force for fifteen years, and for three of those, I was part of the Harrier Force. And from time to time, we would deploy from our nice warm airfield to woods in Germany, Denmark of the UK, to demonstrate the Harriers capabilities to operate from almost anywhere.

As part of this, we used to camp in 12 by 12 six man tens, and be fed by cooks from another tent, and then eat in a series of tents tied together.

It was all very cold war, and for the most part, was a bit of a lark. But I learned I hate camping.

Even worse, when Gulf Wat TNG was about to kick off, we had to undergo further training from proper soldiers, well the TAF Regiment, on how to use burners and rat packs.

Even less fun.

Jools loves camping.

I know I should go with her, but I can't bring myself to go. I mean well, but when push comes to shove, I like a shower and a cooked meal in the evening, followed by sleeping in an actual bed.

So, Jools goes camping every now and again, and I stay home and look after the cats.

And on Thursday, just before lunch, Jools left for five days in Meopham, camping in a wood.

Obviously, the months of dry and warm weather have broken, and there are to be showers and longer periods of rain, but if need, she can drive home if it gets too grim.

So Thursday morning we went to the gym, came back and had breakfast. Before she loaded the hire car up and drove off.

Leaving me and the cats home alone until Monday lunchtime.

I put the kettle on.

Outside, it began to rain.

I ended up watching TV all afternoon with Scully: The Sky at Night and Who do you Think you Are, and just about managed to stay awake.

The postman brought a package, a gift paid for by a my good friend and former Olympian in New Zealand who sent me a whisky voucher, even if I did end up buying whiskey.

The addition of the "e" signifies its Irish.

I didn't open it that day. Instead I took it out of the packaging, took this shot, then made myself caprese and garlic bread for dinner.

Meanwhile Jools put up her tent, and took to her sleeping bag at half four as the rain came down. I went to bed at eight to listen to a podcast and fell fast asleep.