So. I am back home now after a truly unbelievable few days. First of all it was off to Gloucester for a fencing competiton. Leaving on Thursday afternoon with a friend, admittedly things didn't start well when our train was delayed 80 minutes! Nonetheless, we arrived after a six hour journey. Travelling First Class made up for that, though (as did free food, drink and Duchy Originals shortbread).

Firday was the competition day, which went well. That wrapped up by late afternoon, and after a quick trip to the hotel it was off to Cardiff for an evening with  gogledd and  eda. Wales is a remarkable place, and I was delighted to spend time there, even just a few hours. After some drinks and live music in Cardiff city, we headed back to Gogledd's, where I discovered the Pong phenomenon (38 years too late), and was introduced to the 'classic' works of Tommy Wiseau. The last train back to Gloucester was absolutely packed (standing room only), but I still made it back to my hotel (at 1.30am)

On Saturday, the original plan was simply to head home. However, I found out about a meet taking place along my route home. And so, at the last minute, I set off once again... to the furmeet in Birmingham! Yes I could only stay a few hours, but it was definitely worth it. Plus, Gogledd and Eda had made it along! This was my first meet in Brum (and first trip to the city for quite a while). Excellent group of furs; and I was particularly impressed at how many suiters had turned out. The German Christmas Market was in town (delicious waffles!), and of course the city was busy, but overall this was a superb meet. Home after another three hours on the train, everywhere was covered in snow (*happy mountain goat!*) And even then there was more to come, as I went out with some friends for Mexican food. ¡Arriba!

And so, it's back to work. Next event is the Newcastle meet next Sunday. Until then.