Preparation for a long journey?

Back in Monaco, for now.
Nearly every day there are rumours. "We might be leaving today or tomorrow" no-one knows, not even the Boss.  It's all very unsettling but that's just the way it is.
Despite this, it looks like we'll be heading off on the weekend.
Probably back to Italy and then Sardinia.
I'm looking forward to the trip, a little closer to when the season finishes.

This morning I saw the Boss, he asked me how much longer my visa will last (one year next week) and what I intend to do after.  He acknowledged that if I wanted to stay "it would be a fight" to get a new visa.  I think he loves that sort of thing, fighting for what he wants and eventually winning. That's why we (on Brecqhou) don't have to pay tax.  But, I planted a seed.  I let him know that it is probably time for me to go home.
I'm sure that he understood and we will have to start searching for my replacement. Tell the truth, I think I've found the perfect person already.
Just remains to be seen if he thinks he can work with a South African nurse. I'm pretty sure he can as he has employed more than one in the past.

Enough work talk.
I got up early the other morning, wanted to catch the sunrise. It was a bit too cloudy and the shots weren't exactly what I was looking for.  I've not done any work on them yet, Sure I can improve them a little. After the sunrise, I went for a walk in the park.  You'll see from the photos.
There weren't many people about at that time of the day, a nice change for Monaco.

There and back again

As time passes, the boss is becoming more adventurous.
Last week we "set sail" for Italy and ended up outside a lovely village, Portofino.
The very village is visited in "The wolf of Wall Street". The night before we left, we were attacked by some extreme weather, but unlike the yacht in the movie, we didn't sink.
Really, who sinks in the Mediterranean?

We were at anchor (see first shot) between Portofino and Santa Margherita.   Most days I'd get off the boat and walk from one to the other, about an hour, along the coastal path.
On our last day I decided to have a good long walk and my goal was a bar on the south-eastern point that overlooks the bay.  Although they've updated the singe on the paths, not all of them are marked and I guessed which one to take. It appears I was a couple of kilometres out. I headed for the South coast and could see (what I thought) my goal, the pub at the top of the cliff (shot 2)
When I got close enough to check the place out, I discovered it wasn't what I thought it was.
What I found was a house built on the point, 30+ meters above the sea, not the pub.
As it looked like a private house, I didn't enter.  I had to use all my scrambling and rock climbing skills to get there, not a "walk in the park". Although you can't make it out in the photo, steps were carved out of the cliff face, with rope railings. So, the place was accessible by sea.
As I investigated a bit further, I discovered there were no real paths (only goat tracks), apart one that went from the front porch/verandah that wend down the cliff a little way.  I figured that this was the way out and jokingly guessed that there would be a tunnel at the end of it, but hoped it would lead out of the property.
Just a short way down, there was indeed a tunnel with a small truck parked in it.  Weird!
I ventured into the tunnel past the truck and then realised there were no lights and I couldn't see into the tunnel. At that stage I started to get slightly spooked. What was this place? Who owns it? and why do they have a secret tunnel?  I left the tunnel and approached the building, although the doors were open, the place looked lived in. Washing was hanging on clothes horses, the whole building was in good repair and there was evidence of recent renovations, building equipment was lying around.
Then I saw movement come from inside the house, imagined or not I decided it was time to get the hell out of here.
If I were to be discovered, I couldn't explain in Italian what I was doing here.  So, I legged it. back down the cliff path, along the water line and back to the paths that lead to Portofino.

Maybe the place was just an military installation that had been privately bought or maybe it belonged to the church, there was a small out-building with cross on the point, but it looked like a modest residence. Nothing ostentatious apart from the location and access - Secluded and inaccessible.
I still wonder, who needs a tunnel and where did it come out.

Maybe I read too many criminal novels, too many conspiracies.
Either way, I guess I'll never know.

Back to reality, my colleague Tim has just taken off for 2 weeks, Which hopefully means that I'll be able to take some time off later in the year, fingers crossed.
We're back in Monaco now, but I doubt we will be for any length of time.

A walk in the woods

If you look closely, you'll see a secret hide-away

South Of France

Still on the boat.
This year has been quite different to last, things seem to be happening earlier than previous seasons.
Guess that keeps the crew on their toes and makes it more interesting
I'm sure that a lot of them are quite bored with the same routine year in - year out.
It's all relatively new for me.
We've been spending quite a bit of time at St Tropez
It's really a lovely spot, it you manage to get away from the tourist traps.
I spend most of my time down there going for walks, averaging 10-15 km per day
keeps me fit and the coastal path is not as busy as I expected.
I can just keep walking, 3 hours is quite enough.


We weren't in Monaco for the F1, but to tell the truth you see more on the TV.

The days are long but the weeks seem to be flying, can't believe it's June already.

I'm quite sure that we'll be heading to Italy in the next couple of weeks
There is absolutely no basis for this assumption, just a feeling.

For now, I'll just focus on the day-to-day, maintaining my stock and making the most of the Mediterranean Summer.

Some of the St Tropez old town

Boat People...

But seriously,
I guess that Summer is (Nearly) here, we're back in Monaco and on the boat.

I'm expecting day trips to Coastal villages such as St Tropez, Long days in the Monaco Harbour, Longer nights on the foredeck,  sunsets and very few sunrises.

We had been on the boat less than a week and were already at sea.
For, what we thought, an afternoon sail to St Jean Cap Ferrat. Turned out to be nearly a week trip to St Tropez.
And to Top it all off, I was able to Catch up with Katharina and also witness the gathering for the annual Harley Festival.

Friday, We returned to Monaco, the Historical Grand Prix is being held this weekend.
It definitely grabs my attention more than the actual F1.
Probably because I could imagine owning, working on and even driving one of these vehicles.
Their simplicity, the unbridled power, naturally aspirated V8s, no turbos, the sound as they roar around the track, the echoes from the Tunnel, it's another world from F1 of today.
Although, I'm not really making the most of it. A quick wander around the pits yesterday, caught some of one of the races before lunch today, might catch a bit more later. But I've some housekeeping to attend to, washing and Ironing. At least I don't have to cook...

First sunset at sea.

Evidence in the Pub.

Australians everywhere.

Time out

At last, I managed to get off the Island overnight.

Friday, I had organised some training at the PEH.  The trainer ended up being an ex-colleague of mine, Caroline.  So was a very laid-back and informal affair.  Didn't end up taking as long as I had set aside for it, so was able to spend some time with Melinda and my mate Charl.  

It felt good to get away, if only overnight. 

And I managed to add some stickers to Melinda, personalise her.  The reflective strips on the back, I made myself. I managed to get ahold of a couple of rolls of the reflective tape used on Emergency vehicles, the colour brings to mind what is used on ambulances.  I've been hit once from behind and don't fancy it happening again, hopefully this will help.  Also, I've added a couple of flags to the beak (white section).

Looks like we'll be heading for the South of France soon.  I look forward to the trip.  Change of scenery. And the Côte d'Azur is a lovely place in Summer.  Plus, the sooner we get on the boat, the sooner we get off the boat, the closer I am to having some time off and getting a few more rides under my belt. 

It always amazes me, people seem to find it strange that I ride a motorcycle in the rain.  "What do you do when it rains" they ask. I always respond "get wet" and then receive puzzled looks...people just don't understand. 

I suppose I consider myself biker, not just someone who rides a bike. All weather, temperatures, places, it doesn't really matter.  It's what I do. The further, the better.

Oh, I also managed to catch the sunset Last week, it was pretty amazing. I was just happened to be outside when it was setting.  

See and Be Seen...

Melinda and Charl's bike

At the setting of the sun

Hoppy Easter...

Looks like Easter is almost upon us.
That means that we'll be moving soon.
But while we are here, I thought I'd get out and make use of the place.
The sunrise is always a joy to behold, wherever I am.
Although directly to the east is the Island of Sark, So I had for the sun to rise over this island, took about 30 minutes or so.  But was worth it.  I especially like the Chapel, I'd not seen it in the morning light before.

The other 3 were part of my assignment - hands.

Oh, you may have gathered that I am back on Brecqhou, have been since the 8th, but it feels so much longer.
Hopefully I can get over to Guernsey a couple of times after Easter, before we head south.  I've tried to organise some training for myself, hope I get to attend.

Unfortunately, I have had to accept the fact that I may not be able to have any time-off till after our Summer-season.  I have no Idea what I expected, but I thought I would be able to get away before summer.

I'll just have to wait and see.

Until then, I shall just enjoy the ride.

The Chosen...

Unfortunately, my Boss seems to think that he needs me to be around all the time, no-one else could possibly do my job or replace me for a short time (at least for the time-being).
In some ways this is quite awesome, my job is safe and the pay will keep rolling in.
In other ways it is less than desirable, no holidays for me, at least until we can organise "suitable" cover.

What does this mean: I'm tired and need some down time, I can't get away with Melinda and private stuff is put on hold.  It's not all bad, at least I will save money.  And now I've to concentrate on other things.

I've been in London for just over 2 weeks now.  Today's the first day that it's actually rained, mostly it's been overcast with plenty of pollution and dust. Not good for asthmatics, good thing I'm not one.

I've been able to put a little bit of time into my photography, hence the photos that follow.
I managed to pin down the 4 that I wanted to submit for my second assignment, I only hope they make the grade.

As with all things, time moves on and my eyes aren't getting any younger.  Apparently the last time I had a test was over 2 years ago. I found that I've been needing my glasses more and more often in recent months, Probably due to the excessive amounts of stress in my current position combined with daily computer use. Either way, I thought I'd get something different. What do you think?

I suppose we will be heading back to the island sometime next week, but you can never predict these things. But until then I shall continue to make the most of being in London.
The cinema, I can't get enough. Tonight I'm going to see Noah - with Russell Crow (I'm not actually going with him, we might get into a brawl).
Recently, I have seen some awesome films: The Double - 8/10, The Grand Budapest Hotel - 9/10, The Dallas Buyers Club - 7/10.
Also, I spend most week-day mornings at the Arch Climbing gym/centre, Usually about an hour. I'm not as good as I was. But I'm better than those who don't.  It is the most amazing workout and the routes are constantly changing.  Better than sitting around in the Ritz and ordering Tea all day long...

I like tint

one off, I love them

The island's chapel. 

Iconic Ritz Wall Clock

Depth of field...

I've been slacking off since my last assignment and could'T get motivated.
This weekend was warm and sunny with totally clear blue skies and a slight breeze.
The perfect weather to get outside and experiment.
I hope you approve...
I think I'll submit the ones of the stained glass, what do you think?

It was also the perfect weather to take a bottle of wine, blanket, book, music and go sit by the lake...

From Winter to Spring

Indeed,
Spring appears to have sprung out of no-where.
Back on Brecqhou now, the Snow fun is over for another season.
Although coming back felt strangely like returning home.
I'm now back into the same routine that I had before...

I have managed to get over to the BIG isle of Guernsey a couple of times.
Appointments, etc.
Perfect excuse to get Melinda out for a blast.
not that there's far one can ride, or fast for that matter but a lot further than on Brecqhou.

Last week, I managed to fit the last of the "add-ons" I had purchased for her over the past 6 months, with the help of my mate Charl. Thanks!
Today, I managed to take a few photos of said parts.
Mel is now more of an Adventure than a GS. I think I have actually achieved what I set out to do.
Thanks dad for the gift.
She is now ready for what I'm planning to throw at her.

In April I hope to get away to the UK. I shall once again attempt the four corners ride, this time in <24 30="" and="" hours.="" i="" it="" last="" made="" mistake="" nbsp="" of="" p="" riding="" the="" through="" time="" took="" wales="">After I achieve that it's off to the Isle of Skye. I've never been there and I'm told it's just like a mini Scotland. As an added bonus, my mate Lorraine is back there now. Free Couch to sleep on!
Let's keep our fingers crossed that I get the time off. And that the Flooding subsides.

After summer I plan to take another, longer trip. FHB - 48. (3500 km)

But that's nearly 6 months away.

For now, I'll just concentrate on dealing with the challenges of the day-to-day life in Fort Brecqhou!

At the setting of the Sun!
Looking west from atop one of the many towers.

Beak, driving lights and headlight protector.

Moar Protection

It not only protects the bike and rider, but appears more formidable and aggressive to lowly car drivers.

Standing on my own!

Woo Hoo!

I've been here in Switzerland since the end of December and have taken some snowboarding lessons over the past weeks.
But today, I gathered my courage and got out on the slopes by myself.

The Sun was shining, clear and blue skies, the snow reasonably fresh from the night before.
Conditions couldn't have been better.

And I even managed to stay on the board (most of the time)
Sure I took a fall or two, but nothing as big or bad or  as I expected.

The Smile says it all!

Die Schweitz...

Back in December, I was feeling a little depressed.

I'm already 41, have no Partner, no dependants, don't own a house, no mortgage, I often move with my job, therefore have no real "home base", none of my friends are around, the only large item I own is a motorcycle.

Then I thought, WAIT A MINUTE:
I am ONLY 41, that's not old.
I have no partner or dependants relying on me to provide for them
No Debt, no rent
No "Homebase"
My job takes me to awesome places
I have friends all over the world, who let me visit
And lastly, I do Own a Motorcycle, Melinda

There is no reason to be depressed, these are all positives.
Sure, I don't get a lot of time off from my job.
But I do get the opportunity to learn, travel, study whilst being paid and I am able plan my next trip.

My job that I'm doing now is completely different to anything I have done before.
I'm still adapting, evolving, learning.
Instead of the hustle-bustle of the ICU, I'm learning to be tolerant, to wait for things, to be ready where and when I'm required.  This is a Holistic approach to health and the maintenance of health.
It is almost like an experiment and I'm a part of it.
The most positive aspect is that despite the loneliness and isolation I know (hope) that there are people out there who will support me when needed.

Right now, things are looking up.
I've started a course at the open study college, and passed my first assignment.
There hasn't been much snow for nearly 2 weeks, but it's been snowing all day.
Hopefully, I can start learning to snowboard soon.
And I've only to survive until mid-2015, that's not that far away.
Next time I write, I'll pop in some photos of snowy Switzerland.