It’s been about ten days since LSW and I returned from our trip to Singapore, Australia and Hong Kong. The logistics of our holiday were such that we changed location 17 times in 27 days. There was almost always something significant planned for the next day – either a move to the next place or a bit of interesting tourism or both. The holiday flights and accommodation were pre-booked and so there was no option but to get on with it. Fortunately the plans all worked out perfectly (until the train returning us home from London was delayed – typical!) and the holiday turned out to be tremendously exciting and enjoyable.

Since our return, it has taken a while for me to get used to the lack of imperative to do anything. It has almost felt like retiring for a second time.

It was such a joy not to have had a mountain of work email and meetings to attend following the holiday. But the absence of any tasks, meetings or instructions set out for me on my return felt almost as strange as it had done when I first retired from work in July.

That is not to say that I haven’t done quite a lot since returning. I got back just in time to see Forest Green Rovers win and have seen them play twice more since. LSW and I have increased our understanding of our community by attending meetings on the local town’s climate change action plan and the local council’s housing strategic review. We have sampled the local pub’s Curry Night (very yummy) and I attended the village Men’s Night (and acquired my first hangover in months).

LSW and I also went to the newly opened The Marshall Rooms and saw an interesting and impressive band called Syd Arthur. The venue has a long history – apparently the Beatles played there in the 60s – but has required a complete refurbishment. It is part owned by Keith Allen who lives locally and is famous for his roles as Sheriff of Nottingham in the film of Robin Hood and in Game of Thrones. It’s great that he is investing his success back into the local community.

Syd Arthur at The Marshall Rooms

Slowly, my routines are falling back into place as they were before our holiday. The daily walks into Nailsworth are autumnal now of course, but still very pleasant. The availability and digestion of the Guardian in hard copy and completion of the Quick Crossword with LSW has resumed its place in my day.

Layer of Wood Smoke Over Nailsworth

Also, Christmas is coming. That will bring a new diversion and dimension as our sons return to us. I’m looking forward to that but also think that LSW and I will have to start planning another trip soon!