Friday 29^th June, 2018 0000

Ok, starting this whilst waiting for the Big Match.

I know I said I probably wouldn't but – and I am under no illusions that it is because of my vociferous complaints as to how the VPN people could keep LA connected but not one UK location – touch wood, they may have cracked it, at least for a while. I watched Colombia v Senegal with no problem.

Early last evening Alice contacted me with the news that she has a shiny new Schengen visa in her previously unused passport.

My brain now hurts. I have spent hours booking flights and getting her to book matching ones so we can sit together. Hotels (and still 10 days in various places to book plus ferry tickets) are confirmed, at least those I have booked and very suddenly, £4,500 is not actually looking quite as comfortable as you might imagine for a fortnight away, even though she is paying for her own flights. It's crazy. But. It's £4,500 which will in great part go to the EU and not the UK due to the idiotic system of visa issuance which lets in criminals and keeps out honest tourists, even though she is partly to blame for not following orders. There's an M&S in Athens, maybe I can get my socks and boxers from there!

So now I have my crutches. One of my better decisions (a snip at 74\) and my stubbornness gave way. It is heaven. Not in the traditional “swing those legs” way (I reckon I would snap them anyway!) but as a walking aid. Almost everyone has used a pair at some point but it is only when you get old and fat and unable to hop that one truly appreciates them. This morning will see whether being able to haul myself upright using one lessens the chest agony as well. Then my life would be complete!

Except of course, I don't want to still need them in six weeks.

But hell, life is easier and less painful and if I actually want to takea bus now there is no problem with ensuring a seat – even here they will give me one! A seat, I mean......

So now I am going back to hotel bookings before England play. I may actually stay awake until at least half time.