First Desk

The clocks changed overnight and for once, Jasper remembered to reset his paw-watch. I was up bright and early, but he was very tardy. Though it was a bright and sparkly start to the day, there was no walk for me. We had to get breakfast and prepare for a day in bandit country.

We had a lovely drive up to Odiham, even if we did follow a horse box at about 35 mph all the way from Selborne to the bottom of Jan and John's road. It was lovely to see them again. It seems to have been a long time since we last got together. We sat down with a coffee and started our usual update on family, health, and general news. We also chatted about the river cruises we both had planned, for us, the Moselle, for Jand and John, the Douro. We also chatted about sea cruises. Jan has never had the opportunity, and John has only sailed with "Grey Funnel Lines" (the Royal Navy).

For lunch we drove across to Rotherwick where we had a table booked at "The Falcon". The last time we were at the Falcon was for Diane's 41st birthday party. It was interesting to see how it had changed. They have built an extension, redecorated extensively, and changed ownership several times. The new owners have only been open for a month, but judging by the throng that met us as we opened the door, it is already very popular. We all chose the Sunday Roast for lunch, and the dishes turned out to be very healthy portions. I must say that it was very good value for money - certainly a lot better than the restaurant we visited last time we came up to see them. We chatted with the owner and I showed him some photos from our last visit, 31 years ago. 

Returning to Jan and John's we sat down for some more chat and pie and custard. (When we visit each other we tend to eat the main course at a restaurant, but have dessert back home). We sat and chatted at the table for several hours watching as the daylight was replaced by the dark. That was the signal for us to get a bit together and say our goodbyes.

We had a good run back, even if the journey started in light rain. That soon dried up and it was a comfortable journey home.

We sat down for a quiet evening in front of the TV. As we watched the latest episode of “Slow Horses” on Apple TV, I couldn’t help but reflect on how many Senior Managers, VPs, Project Executives, MPs, and Civil Servants  that I have met (across industry and Government) who behave exactly like “First Desk” - blinded by their own self importance and totally unaware of their ignorance and inadequacy.(Rant over)