This summer has been one of travel in which we’ve barely been at home. To illustrate this I calculated that from last Monday to yesterday, Sunday, I had travelled nearly 900 miles across the country.

We are doing lots of visits to my father in law at present and we have made two trips in the past month to ensure that he has company and practical support he needs. We spent three days with him last week, it’s a quiet time but one which allows gentle conversation. My old school friend who lives in Ireland was also in Bristol caring for a relative so we were able to meet and catch up. As with my old school friend who came down earlier this summer there is a real comfort and peace being with those you grew up with, you know each other, your families , it was a very lovely evening.

It was a bit of a week for catching up as on Saturday I was able to meet up with my cousin at a new parkrun. I did have a fantastic morning, I went over with my parkrun friend and enjoyed our conversation on the journey, one which I didn’t need to drive. When you drive as much as I do, not needing to drive is such a treat. We then ran the 5k, surrounded by stunning countryside and of course had a delicious breakfast and watched the planes land and take off. It was one of those mornings which was pretty perfect and filled the soul.

We then had a very early start, 4 am on Sunday as we went to Manchester for the first football game of the season. We had looked at taking the train and staying over but after having had such a bad experience in June on the trains we opted for the supporters coach. This was a wise choice as again all the trains were cancelled due to an electrical fault.We were at Man City’s ground and it was the first time for us all. It’s a very modern stadium but lacked the heart and soul of more traditional football grounds. It was a good game and we were unlucky to concede an injury time winner. However the team looked good and we’re optimistic for the new season.

Despite all the travel, I was pretty organised post holiday and as well as the laundry and writing lists for next year. I made a photo book of our holiday, printed off photos and stored away my mementos. I love to have everything finished, allowing me to focus on new projects. This week coming is a transition to the new school year, I’ve a little work to do and make sure my son has everything ready for college. Being a teacher it’s also a week of appointments, which are difficult to schedule in term time. Mostly I’m simply looking forward to pottering at home.