All change

The last sixth months have been a little strange to say the least. The 'old King' wasn't well in April and was in hospital by August having his engine over-hauled. I'm pleased to say though, that he's just been signed off and has made a great recovery. Consequently the summer was a bit of a write-off, we'd already cancelled a return to South Africa in August and as things turned out it was good that we did. Since going back to work in September it's been all change and rather busy. Ceri and I waved a tearful farewell to 'Babs' our VW van, I resigned from work and leave at Christmas, Ceri got a two month sabbatical, we booked flights to the States and I got a new job starting after Easter...just gotta sort a trip to Font in March now and get over a tweaky finger tendon. Trying to train as much as possible at the moment though, as the weather has been so awful since the start of October. I hope I can put it all together and really push it for once, now that I've sorted some quality time in the new year. I've tried to tick-over with a bit of bouldering over the summer but it's been hard going at times... a few tasty morsels though: Event Horizon 6c+ Samson Stones...the legs cry 'never again' but nice to see Greg honoured. Tarantula 7c Nuda's Tartan...funky Simple Simon 7b Wright's Rock...nice day with CK before the op, 20 years to climb in the Churnet! Byker Groove 7c Sean's Roof, Will 8a Mallory Boulder, Ogwen Mirf's Roof 7c, Churnet...very, very good. All Natural 8a, Almscliff...used my route endurance! Lancaster Bomber 7c, Lad Stones...mint.