Lovely day

I've been riding over the last couple of days and it's been fantastic. Today was particularly beautiful. The English countryside in spring is a sight to behold...I know I'm going on a bit and sounding all poetic, but you can't get away from the fact there is nowhere is the world to compare with an English Spring Day.
I went to see my bother in his hairdressing salon yesterday. A very nice lady came in for a hair cut and we got talking. It doesn't take me much, I will talk to anyone. Her son had ridden around America for three months a couple of years ago. He said he met some fantastic people, especially a group of Hells Angels, who he beat in an arm wrestling contest. That is something I wouldn't do.....I'd let them win...not that I would have any choice. My youngest son, Thomas used to beat me when he was about fifteen, he's always been a strong lad. Daniel, my son who is in the army passed his course on Friday and is hopefully on the way home this weekend on leave. It's a night out for the O'Brien boys....and their dad.I tend to embarrass them, but that's what parents are for don't you think? It's always a bad sign when I dance. Whenever I go out I promise myself that I won't dance but always end up doing so...maybe I'm just a rhythmic animal...or pissed.
I booked the final flight of my journey today, from New York to Malaga via Dublin.It was cheaper to book from America than England, which always annoys me. Why is it we always seem to get ripped off in this country?...anyway it's sorted. I can put my cycle through as luggage. I was a little worried about not being able to get it on the plane, but I'm happy now it's done.
I was chatting with one of my work colleagues today and he will be in New York with his partner on the 29th July, the same time as I am.They have agreed to be my welcoming committee in New York, which is great. It will be nice to see a familiar face after four weeks of cycling.
I am off to see a film tonight at the Lowery in Manchester. It's about two soldiers who have difficulty getting into a pub whilst on leave. My son experienced something similar once in Warrington on a night out. I was fuming, he was about to go on tour to Iraq and we couldn't get in the pub for a drink. It's a big problem and should be sorted. I can't understand why a military ID is not proof of identity in a pub...it's a mad world we live in. Anyway I'm going to speak to the writer/directer of the film to see if I can get any publicity for my ride....do you think that is mercenary? It is in support of a charity close to both our hearts so I don't feel too guilty.