They started out by tucking the I pad flap over the ventilation flap and sitting back to enjoy the film. I could have told them that wouldn't work - in the first place they couldn't see it (myopia/old age) and in the second place they couldn't hear it (pounding rain/old age). Next they rigged up dad's spare boot lace (he thinks of everything) over the integrated washing line that runs down the length of the tent - visibility improved, but the rain still obliterated the sound, and dad eating his grab bag of salt and vinegar crisps didn't help. Third try - plug in the ear phones and have one each - this worked for a short while, until they realised they were only getting half a conversation each. Right, turn on the sub titles - can't read them - writings too small - find the specs. So now they're sorted, sitting up in their sleeping bags like Dick and Liddie munching carrot cake with their sporks (manners maketh man). By now the film is halfway through, nobody has the first idea what's happening, but we enjoyed it anyway.
Dad woke up this morning, nudged mum, with a 'Jane, it's 7 o'clock'. 'And' came the response. 'Actually it's 5.30' was the somewhat timid reply. That went down well.
Eventually we awoke, had breakfast (porridge, um um), struck camp and started walking, still in the rain. Within an hour the rain ceased, the sun came out and we have had a wonderful day walking through undulating countryside, through field after field of sheep and lambs. I've had a feast I can tell you. They were so busy discussing the various ailments they spotted, that they failed to notice me grazing my way along.
As we approached Malham, we came across a group of D of E candidates who, on spotting mum's rucksack cover, asked how far we were going. 1100 miles says dad. Where's Groats asks one of them, is it in Wales? No, said dad in his most patient voice, it's in Scotland. Well where's Lands End, is that in Wales? It gives you so much confidence in the education system!
When we got to our destination (4* hotel - sublime to the ridiculous)there was a parcel for me. Dad helped me open it. It was full of Burns. I am so happy. Thank you everyone one responsible.
Also the new gadget for transferring photos has arrived and it works!
Day off tomorrow - hurray.
Keep spreading the word
M
xx
No comments:
Post a Comment