I was up early with every intention of texting Adele Roberts on her Radio 1 early morning show. I am a regular listener and she has a section whereby people wishing to be excused regular listening can apply for a pass. I felt I stood a good chance of getting a mention, but I was already in holiday mode. I batted the alarm off and promptly fell asleep again. The next time I woke it really was time for me to get up. I had packed most of my kit and laid the rest out in readiness.
By lunchtime I was set to go. I kicked around a little and then was reminded that I needed to drop a birthday card at a friend’s house. For some reason I then went into rush mode, scribbling a card, throwing on my clothes and heading out. As I pulled the bike backwards out the gate I felt the whole back end wobble. I shook the heavily loaded rack, there was a clunk and clearly the rack was lose. The day before I had to replace the rear indicators and in my rush had not tightened the rack back down. I still had ample time but I was in hurry up mode. Luggage stripped and tool kit tested, I tightened the nuts and bolts before reloading everything. A few quick pics and I was off. 
I stopped at Loomies Moto Cafe, snapping a quick picture at the bikers meeting point before again heading South. I dropped the card off and made for the ferry at Portsmouth. As I rode the final stretch I thought to myself ‘It’s lucky you tightened that rack earlier as you may not get another chance before Africa’ I chuckled yeah that’s right I’m actually going to Africa.
Earth, Wind and Tyres 
The friend says “thanks for the card”. Not sure you should say you scribbled the card – surely a lot of care and attention went into it!
Anyway I’m just reading your blog – so that’s at least one follower!
Happy and safe biking. X
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