Snow was something else.

The snow added to the trip for me and according to the concierge it was the worst he had seen. We got out though although much of NY had come to a standstill. No buses, underground and few taxis. Fortunately we were in the equivalent area to Trafalgar Sq in London so could walk to nearly everything. Got helped by friends from NYPD at the airport

Were like celebs going straight through to our own immigration channel!Then off in an offduty cops 8 seater to the hotel. People can be so good.

Back from NY!

Well we made it out and we made it back with upgrades both ways , how lucky was that! First flights after the snow at Heathrow and first flights after 21" of snow overnight in New York.Couldnt have chosen the dates better. Unfortunately the snow meant that we didnt see all the sites we wanted to but the girls still managed to do all their shopping!We had a 6 hour delay at JFK but made easier by a neck back and scalp massage , unlimited food and drink and showers etc in the BA club lounge. Its the only way to do it folks!There was even a kids room for Poppy.

New York beckons

Seems ages since I last wrote this blog. Gill's dad Wally had his funeral last week which was arranged by Pat Gallagher who did Shaun's funeral. It was a nice family affair and just what was needed. We are now very experienced in funerals and should really open a consultancy! Next year has to be better. Bol*ocks to 2010 frankly.

Ive looked after Poppy a bit recently so have been very much at home. I managed to get up to the Met last Tuesday to at least get some protest pics for my AS level project and managed a few.Unfortunately it didnt kick off! I also got some poor pics at a protest in Brighton that I took Poppy to! It was the only way I could get the pics! Main difficulty was every cop wanted to speak to me which was quite sweet. Chasing police and Prots round Brighton with a baby buggy is not to be recommended!All the cops wanted to catch up on my retirement etc.

When I went to the Houses of Parliament last week I met Sx officers at the location so ended up having a long chat with the Tacads and Andys Kundert and Fleming. Once a cop always a cop! Small world the public order world. I also met Garry Learmonth who is a friend of Lauras now an Inspector in the Met outside 'the house'. He was at Poppys christening! Anyway Ive got some reasonable pics all in all.

So its off to NY on Thursday until 29th Dec...and we are all looking forward to it. News on the inside is that weve upgrades both ways..so fingers crossed on that one. A cop from NYPD is picking us up from the airport too in his 8 seater good old boy. I cant thank Taff our mate in the Met for his work and contacts.Have invited him and his family to stay for a weekend in the Spring. Lovely family.

This week

Bit of a boring week but at least Ive heavily worked out twice.Was quite pleased with myself. Saw 4 cops the last one I did 3 retired and 1 working. One was Bob Brown ex Polegate traffic who retired and went to ashford as a trainer which must put him mid 60s. Hes fit as F$%k! Looks about 35 and just come back from Fuerteventura with a mega tan. Not so bad this retirement lark. Then the snow came! Managed a few fotos of it as u can see. Me and Gill agreed its the heaviest snow we can remeber in 30 years. She closed the school today not unsurprisingly.Gills dad's funeral is Monday and Nikki flies in from USA for it too so we have 9 round here Sunday eve..should be a good champagne reunion even in the circs poor bloke.

Wales v NZ

140 stone of prime welsh beef giving it some in the warm up. I think I'll give it a miss!

Wales v NZ an excellent day out

Quite a busy week. Glad Im not working. Had Poppy Tuesday for the day. We went to softplay at the sports centre. Only a few kids there so off she went. Highlight I suppose was her doing a V shaped rope ladder 10 feet up! Its ok it

had a net to catch her! She loved it. Quite happy hugging all the other kids and knocking them over. She met a little boy ..Jonathan that she wanted to constantly hug. Jonathan was not yet walking so couldnt run off an easy capture! So she kept knocking him over with her hugs and landing on top!

Also had her on Friday so Laura and Charlotte could get some tattoos done.

Managed to get two Wales v England tickets for 4th January for me and Tim Mottram on the black market. Who cares!Mind you with Wales drawing with Fiji last night it could be a right beating! Took Pops to see the Pascoes last night. We ended up playing on their kitchen floor since she wanted to go everywhere and wanted to be into everything.

We went to an overdue ceremony for Lauras commendation. She'd arrested 4 for robbery and they admitted 5 TICs. Good old girl. Was from her patrol days. Met some old Romford friends which was good from our previous New York trip days.

This week

Well we all went to the cemetery on Sunday. Did what we needed to do and ill say no more since last week is not easy to talk about.We failed to watch Remembrance from the Albert Hall all a bit raw still.

Watched wales and england over the weekend. Both played well but England were superb. I did laugh at the Times today quoting England as World Cup contenders. Oh Please! One poxy game where they actually pass the ball and now they are world beaters. it does look like they are coming out of that tunnel though. Febs match in Cardiff should be a humdinger. Hope old bruv can get me a ticket.
Laura is coming over tomorrow for final discussions on her new house, worktops etc so Ive got Poppy pm and will take her either swimming or to softplay. Laura is staying over night. Thursday we are off to Lauras commendation at Romford Town Hall. She is getting it for arresting 3 youths following a robbery by herself but she got punched in the face and knocked to the ground for her troubles.Its a year old but with everything thats gone on she hadnt received it.
Not long til New York now which we are all looking forward to.
I posted a load of blueys to the Paras today ( all Shauns pall bearer mates) and we sent a load of shoe boxes with goodies for the lads. Must be nice to receive them when ur front end knowing someone is still thinking of u. We owe them so much.

Remembrance Sunday.

Take some time this week to remember all those who have selflessly given for others.

A strange week all in all. Went to the Wales v Australia game with two mates and Gill. Quite a good game all in all. Good seats about 10 from the pitch.It was significant that there were 20000 spare seats though. Smallest crowd Ive ever seen and the atmosphere was down a bit.Its either the ticket prices ie £65 or the volume of games now being played.Anyway Wales were better than I thought and managed good ball retention largely but never really looked like they would score..even though they did!

Yesterday was Shaun's birthday so me and Gill went with Laura and Poppy to the cemetery. Poppy gave Daddy a balloon. Very emotional so i'll say no more. We went for a meal afterwards which was nice. Remembrance Sunday coming up so we are all going to lay some wreaths. Think of us.

Ive got Poppy for 3 days at home while Laura is at work this week. We have some nice things planned. Drusillas (again!), Eastbourne sea front and the beach. Going to see Tom and Emma. Swimming at the club. Should be fun.Its 9 am and shes still asleep..result.

Poppy's first birthday party and more

Had a busy few days. Poppy had her first birthday party last Saturday in Maidstone. A good turn out from 40 mates. I got a foto of her raiding the fridge which of course is totally allowed on ur bithday! Anyway Ive posted a few pics which will show you what I mean.The Para wives were there sadly the lads are all over in Afghan now for 6 months. Fingers crossed they all return. Me and Gill are sending 5 of them...Shauns mates who have been so helpful some boxes of bits and a mate of mine is doing them a Xmas cake since one of the lads put in a special request. Not sure what state itll arrive in but whatever. We also send them blueys of updates . they are all free of charge (and so they should be)! Took Gill away for a couple of days this week to a hotel near Ipswich..why Ipswich...dont ask!It was Poppys official birthday yesterday so Laura brought her over and stayed the night too. Excellent it was. The Popster is now confidently walking and into even more. lock all ur stuff up above a metre! Laura is hoping to exchange on her house next Friday so fingers crossed.Had a bit of a reunion over Poppys birthday. Pam and Eric and the family all came and stayed for a cpl of days. Great to meet old friends and chat and laugh...life can be sooo simple.Starting our prep for New York now so thats all progressing well.....and off to the Millenium for the Oz game a week Saturday.A poor welsh team now through injuries but we shall see. Not hopeful but should be a good sing song.

Update update...

The car remains at the repairers and I should pick it up on Tuesday. Laura's goes in tomorrow. Back training at Bannatynes..early enthusiasm continues. Managed 3 in 3 days and hopefully will do it again tomorrow. I had to leave it for 10 days while the tattoo sorted itself out and I will probably leave the swimming for another 2 weeks or so. Worked out with Tom and Dave his mate this morning. I did a 40 minute cardio while they did rather large bench presses..the posers! Tom got his dog out at Crawley football yesterday who were playing Notts County.Bit of a scrap. A lot of growling but no biting and 'Maddock' did well too!
I went to UFC 120 last night all by myself . Im past caring if I go to sports events by myself or not anymore. I get a lot out of them with lil ol me or with Gill etc.Anyway last night was something Ive always wanted to do so I did. Had a great seat 18 rows from the front and 8 seats from where the fighters enter the arena. Slightly spoilt by some gob sh*t scousers who were more football supporter types than rugby. I almost educated them but there were 4 of them. Isnt beer and cocaine wonderful. Was I ever as big a tw$t when I used to drink? Possibly..no I dont think so! Anyway saw some good fights from half 5 until 11pm. Then watched it all again recorded on ESPN HD this afternoon.I was close enough to watch it without needing to use the big TV screens.
So..me and old Mottram are off to Paris with Roy Tanner for the rugby and to Rome with each other for the Italy game. Its ok its seperate rooms despite Tim's protestations to want to sleep with me! I can understand his enthusiasm but its a no Tim ok!So I'm on the search for tickets for us all. Jeff can't guarantee any and is already going as a 4some with Pat to Rome the old romantic. Fancy taking the Mrs on tour. U can see Gill doesnt read this cant u. If she ever does at least I should now know about it!
Went over to cut Lauras lawn in Maidstone on Friday and we went to Ashford shopping. Had some great fun with Poppy..shes a good little girl but then I would say that wouldnt I ...doting grandad..but she is! I gave her some fruit in a coffee shop and came out looking like Id been in the stocks! haha

Results

Had some good news this week...managed to get a top ticket to the UFC120 at O2 this saturday half price on ebay..and Tim Mottram has booked flights to Rome in the new year to see the Taffs v Italy so we are going over and staying in a 4 star in central Rome. Im on the plot for tickets. Me , Tim and Roy Tanner are all off to Paris for the welsh game too.3 weeks before the Italy game.Isnt retirement wonderful..poor old Gill.We might be staying in a mate 's (Robin Barrassfords) chateau he has just bought in the Cognac region 3 hrs on the train from Paris. We shall see!
Had an electrician round to do the alarm. He put some crap down the bog and the masserator is knacked..only 320 quid to replace. Costly old business!Ive a sense of humour and he is a nice guy!
Meeting with an old mate for lunch tomorrow...Alan Costello who is just back from Luxor where he has a penthouse just finishing being built. Saw Royce and Denise this week for coffee and a good old chat and catch up. Havent been able to work out due to my tattoo healing. Will give it til Monday to be safe.Seeing Laura and Poppy on friday since Im going over to Maidstone to cut her lawn. Went with Pascoe (the old swot) to the photography course last night..got a bit lost but will pick it all up!Gill thinks she may have a surprise Ofsted next week. Last thing she needs!

Another week

Quite a quiet week..hurray
Had Poppy on Thursday for 4 hours while Laura went to the builders at Hellingly to decide the spec for everything on the house she is buying. She met up with Tom and Emma there. Anyway the bottom line is that she has chosen everything and is happy and me and Tom will do her a patio ...Mills and Son! Exchange early November and hopefully move in in Feb. I think Tom and Emma would move in next door if they could!
In the meantime me and Poppy went down to Scotts in Pevensey and Poppy played with Maya who is nearly four. She enjoyed Scotts 'cheeky chickens' which is good since ours have all been eaten. So you fox loving animal rights people can come round the Mills residence to protest and we shall see who wins..huh?
I also met with Stephen Lloyd Eastbourne's MP. We worked together when he was in 'opposition' and I found him a keen enthusiastic guy who has the best for Eastbourne at heart. Unlike the previous incumbent. Anyway he wants me to be his police adviser...a voluntary role to examine things local and national and advise since actually that is what advisers do! Ive accepted and am keen to assist Eastbourne which I have a soft spot for. I really enjoyed my policing there and know I really made a difference....even when I had to cycle to work! HaHa.
I put some oak shelves up yesterday above the Aga. We had them specially made and they are floating shelves. This means that u cant see the brackets since they come out of the wall and into the rear of the shelf and the shelf sits on these rods of steel. Anyway there were 8 rods to get into the back of these two shelves with little tolerance! It took me 4hrs..on/off/on/off...move a rawlplug 6mm.....what a session.I got an 'is there really any need for that' from Gill as the expletives flowed...laughter. Character building some would say...pay someone to do it next time I would say! There was indeed little tolerance!
Car goes in today to have its bodywork done which will take all week. I think Lauras goes in next week! Im also spending the morning with Royce so will catch up on things over a cha. Would rather like to workout and have a swim and steamroom but the Tattoo isnt ready until the latter part of this week. I dont know old boys and their tattoos! Perhaps a game of golf calls either pm today or tomorrow. It can be hard being part of the retirement set!I'll settle for it.

Busy boy

Had a busyish week. Went to school on Tuesday and found out loads about my camera. I didnt think I could do continual shooting on it ie keep the button pressed and it continues shooting. Very useful when Wales are about to score a try. But now i can. Had a good time at the National Portrait gallery last Friday while Gill was doing a speech somewhere in London poor old thing! Decided to do something about my fitness and arse size so Ive joined Bannatynes in Eastbourne. Tom and Emma are also there and Laura intends doing some when she moves in Feb. Oh I didnt say did I but shes bought a new build in Hellingly that will be built in Feb. Good for her....anyway Bannatynes is a very classy place. I must use it tho. Im looking after Poppy yesterday and today so am taking the Popster swimming this afternoon there.Laura got her some armbands yesterday. Looking forward to it. Im also taking her to see Scott and Maya who is now nearly 4 for some chuckkie egg breakfast! How we socialise when we retire! Haha
Gave her her first pear yesterday so she got her nashers working on it as you can see.Laura went to the dentist..horrific..she needed two fillings and the anaethetic wouldnt work. So she had to have them basically with full pain! She looked awful when she got home...in a state of shock and white.It happens in exceptional circs. They tried a dozen injections too!Mouth wouldnt work so the anaesthetic had frozen everything but her nerves still felt everything....nightmare.Cant see her popping back in a rush!

This week

Pretty good week butr for 1 x incident. Laura reversed into the BMW on the drive. Little damage to the Toureg but £3k to the BM. Heyho. After what weve been through the last 10 weeks wtf.

Also did my first day at college...well 2.5 hrs in the evening last tuesday on the AS Photography course. Now those of u that know me would not think creativity and being artie fartie is Pete M. Correct. I think I might have to find my feminine side but Im up for it. Gill gave a speech in London yesterday on Partnership working so we travelled up on the train together and I went to the National Portrait Gallery and National Museum to see some exhibitions on Photos etc. OOoooh hark at him! I also took some tube pics..now how flipping sad is that.

Have also had my first week on the wheat, soya, nuts free diet. Its been ok...anyone for another jacket potato! I also mowed the lawn today and since i am very highly allergic to grass had to dress up like a right tw&t. The postman who i have known for years had to be picked up off the drive when he saw me...laughter. It looked like there had been a CBRN incident!

Off for a 2nd viewing for a house for Laura pm today in Ticehurst.

Its so scary

Another week

A good week this week.
Interesting.....Ive been having a few tests at the hospital following throat problems. Anyway after a CT scan , Barium meal etc etc including a stack of blood tests including for allegies its been found that Im highly allergic to certain foods viz wheat , most nuts, soya bean and grass pollen and just plain allergic to seafood. Some would say bad news but having been diagnosed with ME maybe I havent got it after all, maybe my body has been fighting this 'sh*t' Ive been eating for the last 5 years and it might explain why when I had 2 pints about 3 years ago that my body had almost an anaphylactic shock....presumably to me throwing wheat into it! Anyway my throat problem appears to be mild asthma brought on by the allergy. So today a new diet excluding all the above starts. How boring will I be to have round for a meal! Lettuce Pete? oh yes yum yum! Haha. I joke cos I can still eat dairy, potatoes, rice, meat in fact most fresh stuff. Of course the 6 million dollar question now is can I drink wine and brandy! I'll perhaps try some in a cpl of months if the body settles down and the usual old symptoms go.The tests also said Im allergic to dust mites and the grass so i said to Gill I cant do the cleaning or mowing.........! Her reaction? Shes getting me a mask! Laughter. Happy days we hope.
Had a small family christening in Colchester for Poppy well actually it was a new style Thanksgiving service. All done by Robin the Padre who is top dollar.Met the extended family of the Paras again who continue to be great. Waldo one of Shauns mates attended then flew to Afghan for 7 months 8 pm last night!Most of the rest go in the next 2-3 weeks. Lets hope at least Shauns mates who we all now know so well come back safe.

This week

Well a busy week..ish. Gill was fully back at work sadly. I had Poppy for 2 days whilst Laura had a birthday break in London with Charlotte. They had £18 cocktails at the Ritz..haha...good on them..stayed in Park Lane! Poppy was brill. Got a bit cold one night so Gill brought her to our bed so she slept across the bed after manoevuring for position. Both of us were on the edge and its a big bed! It was great to wake up with her smily face though. Soft rnt we! Picked up a partly built touring bike to take to France with the paramedics later this year. Got it on ebay near Sevenoaks so ill get Adam from the bike shop in Polegate to finish it...needs a new chain, seat and the wires connecting up...haha...thats why Im not doing it!

Also bought some nice bits at auction in Lewes at Gorringes. A superb picture and a smaller pic and an Oak 17thC wainscot chair.Something we have been looking for for a decade but the prices have never been right until now. Brown furniture ( which is what some furniture is called)I think is cheaper now than it was a decade ago. Good time to buy if you like it that is. Anyway its done. Thats what we work for....or at least Gill does. i just get paid to posture and pontificate on my big fat ar$e!! Something I do rather well!

Had a nice email from the Deputy Editor of Telegraph newspapers since I wrote following their putting a picture of Shaun on Page 2 last Sunday. It is a good action pic though and is simply classic 'Shaun' in action in Afghan 2008 with 3Para. Anyway they have tagged the photo for all now so we shouldnt get a shock again! It wasnt the fact it was printed. I am really proud of the pic but the fact we werent warned and I know there are difficult practicalities with that for national papers. But it was a good e mail from him which I acknowledged as such.

Also went to watch Lewes 2nds v Plumton rugby today where Tom was playing 2nd row with his mate Dave at scrum half. Quite a good game I thought. Should I play again I was asking myself?

Dont be bl*&dy stupid Millsy!

There is something about the pitch , the smell, the craic, the team that brought back Rugby and Football memories. Will have to keep it to the bike like old buffers do!

Rugby double header and the iconic Shaun Edwards

Some snaps

This week

Went to Laura's yesterday and mowed the lawn and did some odd jobbing. ..also went to Bluewater for lunch. Poppy has suspected German Measles but it hasnt stopped her laughing as she climbs to the top of the back of the sofa and sits in triumph as if she's just done Everest.
Tom bought a car ..a VW Passat estate from Eastbourne Car Auctions...how very sensible. Its actually the hidden cost of having a police dog..u need an estate to transport old Maddock about. Im sure he will approve.
Went mackerel fishing at 6.30am today. A bit rough the old sea so I cut my losses and took some pics of the sun coming up. Also went to Twickers today with Gill...u know that place where the team in white play!

We sat down and believe it or not as we did 'chasing cars' came over the sound system..those of you closest to us will know its significance. It wasnt easy.

Cost a tenner each to watch two games in the season's opener..Wasps v Harlequins and London Irish v Saracens. Some seriously painful hits and some excellent players on view too. Took a hundred pics! Andy Powell scored on his debut...watch out London..the golf buggy will be out with Powell trying to find some munchies over the limit..haha! Anyway I was quite impressed by the action shots I got including the moment one of the tries were scored. Start my AS level in photography on 22nd Sept at Uckfield Community College. Looking forward to it.

Kaye's

Well am at Kaye's for the weekend. Picked up Laura from Maidstone with Poppy en route on Friday in the BM. Fully packed car ...Poppy does not travel light!Anyway only took us 7 hours and two hours to do the first 50 miles to the M3. The M25 was a really good car park. Stress level went major! Fortunately Gill kept Poppy busy in the back...good lil girl. I was feeling fractious so what she must have been feeling! Luke's Anna had her waters break and is in Shrewsbury hospital to have their little girl.Luke came round last night since he had planned a BBQ for us all. Fine excuse to get out of it!Lets hope the baby arrives today.
I see Tim Mottram is down at the Reading music festival......Im so pleased Tess keeps him young..haha..its alright Hartley just joking. Hes apparently found a new Bills there too..so thats Brighton, Lewes and Reading....good old Billy boy. I have decided to get my arse into gear...not a pretty site and get on the bike once Gill goes back to work on Tuesday so the roadusers in East Sussex have been warned!

Good brekkie!

Well I got left alone this morning for breakfast with Poppy. As you can see it was a rip roaring success. Nothing a good hose down wouldnt sort and I managed to drop her in the sink afterwards. Noone need know (laughter)! For those of u who did enter the competition it is: chocolate brioche (tescos finest..nothing else will do!), blackberries, raspberries,blueberries, raspberry jelly by fingers and toast...some actually went in.

Also went with Tom to BCA at Blackbushe to try to get an Audi diesel estate A4....none going for the price sadly. Tom had had 3 hrs kip too.....they dont make them like they used to. He fell asleep on the way back in Gills TT...that was a laugh ..him 6'7" and me 14 stone! Gill needed the BM for Pops!! Its all about the baby!

Mills gets educated

Have decided to do a night class....an AS level in photography at Uckfield with Pascoe every Wed night for 28 weeks. looks good fun...at least I should be able to use my camera other than on auto by the time I've finished! Starts next month.
Weather has been awful down here but still made a reasonable go of it. Went to see Royce and Denise Saturday and had lunch. It was good to see them since weve only spoken on the phone. Theyve had a belting conservatory put in on the back. Good old St Helena. Royce tells me the Government have red circled foreign investment and that the island is still to have a £300 million airport despite the current economic climate! For 3000 inhabitants and no hotels....why???? Will we ever see Pete Coll again!
Laura and Poppy have been away to Centre Parks for the weekend. They had a birthday weekend for one of Poppys friends. Not bad for 9 months eh! Fortunately Laura is at the dentists in Crowborough pm today so shes bringing Poppy over...goood news!
Heard from Tom who was getting on the late ferry last night. Hopefully he will sort out his Xmas leave today so I can finalise the New York for Xmas trip...yippeee. What a great city.If u havent done it ...do it!

Bits

Well we made a decision to go off to New York for Xmas this year. Itll be a good move..hopefully thats me Gill Laura Poppy Tom and Emma. We have some contacts out there and of course went over with the Met on a fundraiser 15 months ago. Probably 6 days including flights.Really looking forward to it so shopping around now for some deals! Gill has never been but what a great place to visit.
The fox had a bit of a feast the other day so now have NO chickens left! Bring back hunting! Eric my mate from Yorkshire is going to do me some pure breds so am hoping for half a dozen newbies when they visit us in October.Hes got a cockerel and will stick the eggs under one of his broody chickens. Hes got 22 chickens at the moment.
Had some honey today...yum yum! Perhaps I should put a stall at the front gate...I dont think so....someone will nick them no doubt!
Got an e mail from Kenny Macaulay who is teaching at the International School in Frankfurt..hes just bought a house in Obereiffenberg in the Taunus mountains nearby. Looks a nice village on Google images. Wonder if it snows heavy!!! Get the skis out!

I'm back!

Yes as u know Ive been otherwise engaged but I'm back.
Just spent a few days in yorkshire with Pam and Eric which was a nice break. Weather was classic yorkshire it poured down most of the time but we didnt care. Laura went camping which was a big wet mistake. toms gone off to cycle in france where he skis. Apparently u just drop the bikes on the back of the ski lifts and cycle down the mountain. I did ask him to wear a crash helmet how parental! I know that itll be full on give it stacks..wonder where he gets it from!If he comes back without breaking something itll be a result.
Managed to do one of my hives last week and took 40lb of honey out of it..result.The new hive is struggling a bit...a queen that is laying unfertilised eggs but we'll sort it.Eric miller my mate is on the case. we killed the old queen and he is going to get me a new one like u do!Honey tastes good too. maynards green honey..straight out of the hive, sieved and put in jars..what could be better.No additives etc.
Im getting another tattoo....Oct 4th...due to heavy booking of a particular tattoist..Im having something in welsh on my back..its only 8" and a poppy in remembrance of Shaun and a poppy of course for Poppy. Its actually one of the reasons she was called Poppy..in remembrance etc.
Laura is having a tattoo tomorrow so we are off to hastings to get it. Gill isnt having one! laughter!Tom is booked in for a Tatt on his bicep..ouch...the same welsh words as I am having..which means 'rich in spirit' something my Dad mentioned in his final words to the family...'be sincere in all you say and do and keep a clear conscience. You may not get rich on this advice but rich in spirit you will indeed be.' What a good old boy.Anyway thats it for now.

Shauns funeral

Its been a while, almost 3 weeks in fact to have Shauns funeral and in that time it has been a rollercoaster.
I can sum it up however in two words. Pride and Inspiration and overall it has been such a positive experience for me. Yes we have lost Shaun but Shaun would not have wanted us to view his death negatively.
Proud of how the Parachute Regiment have supported us and continue to support us. They have been magnificent and we really feel part of the Para family for life.Proud of the spontaneous standing ovation that 1000 people gave Shaun at the funeral when the facts became known.Proud and inspired of how he selflessly gave his life to save others and proud and inspired at seeing Laura's speech to the many at the funeral delivered so well.Inspired by the spontaneous applause as Shaun was taken through Colchester with the roads closed.
Proud of the police motor cycle escort teams from Colchester to Maidstone for the burial and their closing of the M25 at the Dartford Bridge. Proud of the black armbands worn by the Kent motorcycle outriders. Proud of 40 of Lauras Met friend's in uniform forming a guard of honour in the main street.I could go on but to sum it up I am a better person for the experience.

Shaun's death

Sadly my son in law was killed in a Taleban firefight following a suicide bomb attack in the early hours of Friday morning in North Afghan. He died saving others. As you can imagine it is a hard time but we have a strong family and friends and we will ensure that Shaun very much lives in through Laura and Poppy.

Desperate Dan

Decided yesterday to check the bees and to put some new frames in for them following the main hive having swarmed on Sunday. Quite an experience if you havent seen it before! I was in the main garden and the bees are in the orchard and Gill with an understatement said 'I think you might want to check your bees theyre swarming'. Sure enough there was a loud buzzing and the orchard above the hives was black with bees.Once theyve decided they want to leg it then frankly they are off and there's nothing you can do. After about 30 mins or so they land and this time chose the holly tree in the orchard about 15 foot up....only about 10k of them! They seem to rest before choosing a place to go to. About 2 hours later I heard a buzzing from the kitchen and off they went over the garage across the garden and over the tall trees at the far side and off into the distance. Eric my bee mentor came up yesterday and the queen had left but the hive is still full of bees with a couple of queen cells where they are nurturing a new queen. In about two weeks the first will hatch and go around and kill the other queen cells. She will then leave the hive with some drones who are the males. They will have their wicked way or at least one will and she will return fertilised to the hive where the workers will remove the drone from her. I hope it was worth it because they throw him out of the hive and he dies! The queen then spends her days just laying eggs and eggs.Anyway Ive got about 50lb of honey in the main hive and have put some more frames in so hopefully may get another 25lb this month. The newer hive something has happened to the queen so it will be early August before we have a load of workers so Im not expecting anything from it this year just enough honey to get them through the winter with a bit of luck.There are some new queen cells so hopefully itll be game on shortly.
Anyway anyway there is a reason for me mentioning all this here bee stuff! I opened the hive about 6.30am yesterday morning to put the new frames in..all veiled up etc but the bees went spare!and despie the veil over my face I got stung 5 times ..twice on my chin, both cheeks and under my chin. Dont laugh but when Gill came home I looked like desperate dan! .. swoolen face jowelly neck and my jaw wouldnt open properly...how dramatic. This honey had better be worth it. Anyway speaking to Eric Miller my mentor he said u should never open them up before 10am since all the workers are in and the hive is full. Thx Eric I think Ive learned that one..laughter. Hey ho. I would have taken a picture of my large heed and posted it but it would frighten the children. I also had to go to the dentist for 8.30 am yesterday so went to have a filling redone and had to explain to the dentist why I had a malshaped head! I told him not to bother with the anaesthetic since my face was already frozen..dont panic he gave me some! I think the phrase is ..quite a sh*t start to the day....but it beats sitting in boring poxy meetings hearing the same old b*&&ocks! Anyway did some painting round the house today..a job thats been waiting for 2 years to do! Isnt time wonderful. Poor old Gill has done 55 hours already and its only Thursday!Thats all for now...does anyone ever read this...haha!

Drusillas

Drusillas was excellent fun and it wouldnt have been right to leave without Grandad buying Popppy a meercat now would it. I love my meercat.......and my Grandad! Haha.

Bits and Bobs

Well went fishing on Thursday. Steaming hot day and 8 of us went on the chartered boat from the Sovereign Harbour in Eastbourne leaving at 7.15am..10 hrs of it.Didnt know any of them but did by the finish! 3 chinese and an Italian from the hotels in Eastbourne and one of them hadnt been fishing before and he caught 3 cod and a sea bass lucky sod! I had a few mackerel and pouting but thoroughly enjoyed myself for £45 pound including rod and bait hire. I thought this was excellent for a day out and we went wreck fishing about 12 miles out into the channel. Had to move out of the way of some big bar steward boats! I recommend it and will be going again in August. Hopefully to get a big conger or big cod!
Had Poppy to myself on Friday so decided to take her with Tom, Emma and Chris Pascoe to Drusillas.(Bought annual membership for 3 of us..me Gill and Laura) which means u can go as much as you want. Poppy is free! I think CP who has a new pi&s off Nikon wanted to take pictures but decided he need the cover of a baby rather than be classified as a perv! Anyway he took some good snaps which will appear here soon as. Tom took Emma in a wheelchair due to her recent op on both her feet and persisted in doing the Lou and Andy wheelchair sketch from Little Britain which was funny...Emma might not agree!!Poor old Gill had to go to work....but then someone has to earn the dosh for my boat trips! So its been a mighty hard week!
Met up with Andy Bliss today, an old mate for breakfast with Gill and Poppy in Bills in Lewes and caught up on the goss and talked about my last week and the old days. Hes a good old boy and good to see he hasnt changed a bit. We then went to Gorringes auctions viewing so the card will get hit this next week I have no doubt!
Wales played NZ again this week after a mauling last week. Lost but with 'hwyl' which for those of you who dont speak two languages is best described as 'inner spirit' or 'warmth'.Considering the side we put out I was well chuffed. I think it was a case of showing serious balls in adversity. Well done the boyos. Some youngsters now now how much work they have to do..looks good for the future and as long as England keep that Martin Johnson bloke theres always hope that Wales will beat England in Cardiff next Feb. Come on Jeff get me a flipping ticket!

Whats this retirement lark like then!

Admittedly its the honeymoon period still but it is rather better than being on the hamsterwheel. Went to Lauras yesterday in Maidstone to cut her lawn!...also saw Poppy who was in her walker watching me in the garden. First time her little feet had been in contact with grass. All was going well til I touched the walker with the mower. OMG! It must have been like us being touched by a 10 foot high steam train. Short cry and she kept on watching! Anyway she had her first incisor today so look out the little nibbler. Went and saw Emma and Tom today p[ost Emmas op. Her feet are well bandaged and it was funny seeing her in a wheelchair! ..with Tom doing Little Britain impersonations. Taking Poppy with them Friday to Drusillas while Laura is on a hen weekend. Off fishing at 6am tomorrow..hjopefully the mackerel will be in on Eastbourne beach. Thursday am going wreck fishing. Have chartered a boat from the harbour to go out 9 miles over some wrecks. Something Ive wanted to do for a long timew so now ive got the time I am! Maybe even catch some big cod or pollack, conger or sea bream. Got a rehearsal Thursday evening for the waldron play which is good fun. Tickets selling fast. I cant say my appearance has dramatically increased sales!

So in short retirement?........just do it! Yippppeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Dunking Time

I did say that Id post the pics of my drowning post the petrol bombing so here it is. It was a hilarious finish to a good day.

It was always going to happen I suppose!

I also had two good days with Tom on dog patrol. Pulled loads of cars...good proactive policing..good to see it still exists amongst the bureacracy of paperwork. It was fun the 'lads' on patrol , it brought back happy memories of days past. Tom took me back to HQ at 2.15am Monday..I left my warrant card, permits, passes etc and my vest and belt to be sent to HQ Clothing and left to be taken home as Mr Mills. All done and dusted and moving on. Sad..no. Ive had 30 years to prepare for it! Actually looking forward to chilling. Met a woman yesterday to discuss some voluntary work with the Forces... sadly she wasnt up to it so i wont be! Cycled down to see Tom and Emma today in Eastbourne..28 miles in very windy conditions but without a rucksack! Enjoyed it. Emmas op to repair her broken toe etc looks a success but she's off for 2 months. On crutches for a few weeks me thinks. Good its all done tho.Will try to post another pic or two.

Had a wonderful last week. On patrol with Scott in Eastbourne was just great. Brekkie in Pevensey Road. Just like the old times. Went public order training and me and Tom got a petrol bomb trashing as you can see.Hilarious. Jonny Reade did a from the heart speech for me in front of the troops which was touching followed by me getting dunked in the water trough. I wouldnt have expected anything else! Last night tonight 7pm x 2am on patrol with Tom and Maddock.A nice way to finish then hand my card in at HQ 2 am...done and dusted...onto pastures new.