The year is passing so quickly.

We have had lots of visitors this year so far, with KevinR coming up from Southampton for the Soldiers of Killiecrankie weekend (rain, rain, RAIN and wind!) but nevertheless a great time. My replacement at GPUK is taking a while to happen but it is well on course.

I was in Vienna last weekend to pick up my UN pass. I was met by some members of GP Austria after my tour of the complex. It is a very "Champions" type building for those old enough to remember that iconic TV show. I had the feeling I was under interview conditions as I met the permanent delegation members, but I must have done OK as I was then whisked off for an Austrian whisky tasting on the banks of the river. Lovely. Click image for more


I was staying with Helen Maria of course and we spent Friday night over dinner putting the world to rights and Saturday on a coffee and cake safari in 36-40C weather. Phew! Vienna in that heat is surprisingly quiet as everyone is outside in the country but Vienna remains one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Here is a chandelier from a cake shop - lovely!