Thursday 18th June 2026

Readied ourselves for our trip up north. Breakfasted, and made a packed lunch to eat on the train. Made our way to Kings Cross with our baggage. Caught the 1130, calling at York and Newcastle. Uneventful journey, though the family in front of us were a bit loud...on their way up to Edinburgh. Disembarked at Newcastle at 1410 and phoned Jim...he arranged to meet us at Callerton Parkway Metro station. 

He was driving dad's car...has got himself on dad's motor insurance, which is a good idea. He dropped us off at 12 High View, and drove off to pick Emma up from work. Mum and dad looking pretty good, all things considered. Dad still has on-going pain management issues...Kath has referred him to her back specialist, but no sign of an appointment as yet. Sat out in the garden and enjoyed a tea before Aki got to work cooking a carbonara for dinner. Emma and Jim made their own arrangements...they are both looking good, too...Emma now in training for the Great North Run in the autumn! Watched a bit of telly in the living-room...dad doesn't seem to be too interested in watching the World Cup.