The big day ( June 3rd ) when we set out on the big trip gets ever closer, so a bit of practice on the camping front seemed a good idea. With some biking friends we arranged a weekend away camping next to a pub, with a treasure hunt thrown in. Elvie and I arrived early to get the tent up, and to allow ourselves to make mistakes without being laughed at. We needn't have worried so much as the tent went up without a hitch.

This is me relaxing after all the hard work, with a cup of tea in the making.

The campsite looks empty at the moment, but soon filled up. Our friends arrived later, and we were able to look on while they erected their tents. Soon we were all settled, and we adjourned to the pub for a meal.

Next day the treasure hunt. Elvie and I covered ourselves in glory. No we didn't win, we got completely lost. Much laughter from our friends and a little concern as we failed to get to the pub for lunch. Fortunately we found our way back to the campsite, and enjoyed a splendid BBQ, with threatening clouds and thunder as a backdrop.

This is the prize for last place being awarded. My complaints about us technically being last fell upon deaf ear.

As a dry run for the trip to Europe, we learnt a great deal. The sleeping arrangements were perfect, and we got all our gear on the bikes, even in the absence of Elvie's panniers which are yet to arrive.

We've another camping weekend in a couple of weeks, so hopefully all will fall into place by then. LB