And finally the rains have arrived in North Wales! Timed superbly with my first clear ‘day off’ since what feels like arriving back from Norway. Sometimes the weather has to force a rest day and I was more than happy to enjoy a few days of Cottage quiet time, resting and re-charging.

All explorations have been on foot from the front door and without heavy packs ropes or kit for a change…

And what better way to spend a restful afternoon, than with a bit of baking!

Josie joined us in the evening, as we were supposed to be going out to a gig together, but a late cancellation had us celebrating the last of Clare’s birthday week at The Cottage instead.

The weather has stayed warm and between the showers, we’ve pottered in the garden and enjoyed the local scenes while the bank holiday busyness passed us by.

We’ve spent a lot of time giving The Cottage some love and catching up on ‘life admin’ so that we’re good to go over the summer. The pace of life has been very agreeable!

I’ve a few days left now to get everything in order for next month, where I’m due to be out on expedition more than I am around here. All being well, I’ll be in Africa by the weekend, then coming and going assessing various UK based Duke of Edinburgh’s Award groups as well as a few junior expeditions. It feels a little like the calm before the storm…