Long trip

They set off at about 6:00 am BST from home in Ireland and I started to get prepared. One of my last jobs about an hour before setting off to the airport to collect them was vacuuming out the car. With my head buried somewhere near the floor in the rear of the car, there was a bright flash of light, a big bang and the vacuum cleaner went silent. Entire electricity went out seemingly for the whole village. And it started to rain. I feared they would be in for a bumpy landing.

However by the time I set off for the airport, the storm had gone and although a slight delay, they eventually all appeared safe and sound and we headed home. And the sun made an appearance again

After a bit of refreshment, they set off for a bike ride to stretch the legs after so much sitting around in cars and planes. Luna went with them while Flash and I did a small walk. Then back home for a swim in the pool before setting off to Ottobeuren and the almost traditional Pizza meal at the sports centre. Angie was out riding but we brought her a takeaway pizza when we came home.

Lovely having them all here again. This year the weather patterns have reversed. Normally coming from a wet and cold Ireland, they first have to paste themselves with sun lotion. However, this year they are almost glad to leave the searing heat of the last six odd weeks in the British Isles and can enjoy the cool, green, lush pastures in Bavaria.