THE CURSE OF THE CYCLING STEREOTYPE

Every November's arrival signals a few things, chief among them the start of the festive season preparations. At work, this translates into two key activities: planning the annual team party (since we're decentralised, every team manages their own event) and, perhaps more notoriously, navigating the annual Secret Santa. For me, this usually means an inevitable delivery of beard products or yet another cycling mug. Is that really all there is to me?

TELEVISION: SUBSTANCE OVER SPECTACLE

​eality television simply isn’t my thing. I’ve perfected the cynical eye-roll whenever anyone mentions a new series set in a villa or a cast member from the Essex gang. My viewing loyalty is reserved for compelling narratives: gritty dramas, classic comedies, or—best of all—the witty, quick-fire brilliance of a comedy panel show or a clever sci-fi escape. These are the only programmes that truly earn a dedicated spot on my schedule. I seek substance, not spectacle.

ENGINE LIGHTS TO VIKING FIGHTS

ightmares aren't always about monsters and darkness; sometimes, they're about an engine light flickering on for the fifth time. The last year we spent fighting with our old car felt like an endless cycle of breakdowns and stress, leaving me with a sense of dread that just won't go away. It’s seriously impacted my mental health, and it’s made me wonder: can you get PTSD from a faulty car? On the positive side, I've had more days off from work now, and I even had a great day out last weekend.

RITUALS AND ROTATIONS

treus, our grandson, celebrated his first birthday this past weekend. It's truly incredible how quickly time has flown, and how much the little lad has grown and developed in just one year.

We marked this special milestone with a joyous gathering of family and friends, combining his birthday celebration with his naming ceremony.

THE CAPTAIN'S YULETIDE MESSAGE

ule is a special time, a moment of peace and reflection that transcends beliefs and means so much to so many. The world continues with its wars and the disasters continue it’s important to cherish the simple joys of life whilst the rich still seem bent on destruction for their own benefit.

So whilst the King is waffling on on the telly I get to deliver my message to the world.

2412.03 LIGHT AT THE END OF THE BEGINNING

In my previous post I mentioned a few things about the last few months which have been a whirlwind of challenges, testing our resilience as a family. From unexpected family issues to car troubles and a broken television, life seemed to conspire against us.

2409.16 FIRST HOLIDAY

Because Rags couldn't come along in May we organised a return (which we took last week). This makes this trip my Grandson's first proper holiday. I'm proud that his first holiday was in a place that is so special to all of us.

2406.02 ATREUS

I'm a week behind in announcing this, but if you follow my social media you'll already know what's coming...

2404.27 BABIES, CARS AND HOSPITALS

Considering just how much has been going on recently you wouldn't be mistaken for thinking that I had plenty of excuses for posting a blog. Unfortunately all I've had on my plate has been a tad overwhelming. But here we are, or at least here I am.