June

[Sweder]

Well it's been the Hammer House of Horror here on the shores of the Bospheros. Turkish customs have had their wicked way with me without the use of lubricant and adding grit for good measure. As a result I've not even taken my gym or running kit out of the suitcase and have not seen the inside of a bar since I got off the plane last Thursday.

My Father-in-Law passed away on Monday - Mrs S is bearing up well but I'd rather be home with her at a time like this. The morning after that news came through that a wonderful friend of some 25 years standing has been diagnosed with end-stage cancer and given two months to live. You might say I've been a little subdued.

There is light at the end of the tunnel (and no, it's not an on-rushing train).
Gerbrig, a delightfully cheery, deliciously attractive lady from Der Nederlands with whom I share a service desk here in Tuyap presented me with a gift this afternoon; my very own bottle of Raki. It might see some action later. The Raki, that is.

I'll write something about my friend one of these days. I'm off to see her when I get back and will save the eulogy for when it's needed. For now its enough to say she is one of the finest exponents of rock n roll lead guitar I have ever seen - Les Paul would have been proud to see her wield her Gibson.