The Adventures of Melvyn and Lesley
Having retired we are busy pursuing the things we enjoy
Today was a special day spent with Hans and Marianne. We went to the top of a nearby mountain and by a tarn we listened to them playing their Alpen Horns (sometimes called Alphorn or Alpine Horn). It was quite majestic listening to them playing with their own echos. Later we built a fire and cooked some local sausage.
From Narbonne to Valance
Over 50 miles run this week, lots of hills plus some speed sessions. This is on top of loads of windsurfing and walking. I’m not sure why, it must just be because it’s such a lovely place to run with perfect running conditions. Miss the camaraderie of my South Cheshire Harriers though
Another lovely run. About 7 miles, roughly half across gently undulating hills and half along beach paths.
Today was our annual 20 mile road race. Lesley and I, along with lots of other club volunteers help out at this. This year I am lead bike. I usually do this on my 1100cc Pan European but as I have swapped it for a Honda Wave which is a mere 110cc I was worried that I might not keep up with the leaders.
Ben Gamble won in a new course record of 1:46, a phenomenal time on our tough course!
Probably silly to run this as it’s my first proper run for over 3 months and it is a hilly course, cold and wet, but I really enjoyed catching up with some of my running friends again. I think I actually enjoyed the race, just wish I was fitter. Pleased to have finished within a minute of Mick Beardmore, Stan Winterton and Paul Douglas.
4 countries today. Switzerland is such a beautiful country to drive through and excellent roads just like France. Filled up with fuel in Luxembourg, cheapest in Europe (but a bit more expensive than 3 months ago) at €1.25 per litre. Found an excellent campsite at Arlon in Belgium. 
Arrived in Venice just after 10:00am local time. We looked for Neil and Janette on the Aegean Sea with no success. Today we have driven to Lake Lucerne. Off for a walk.
So after 3 months we finally start the journey home. We said our goodbyes and left about 3:30 this afternoon. 3 hours later we are in Plataria ready for an early start for the ferry from Igouminitsa to Venice. Sitting in Olga’s Taverna waiting to order food.
Lots of our friends leaving today so we had a get together at the campsite restaurant followed by live music at WildWind last night. Still full and feel like I have a hangover even though I only drank water, tonic and coke. Great night, fab. friends.