36 years ago today Mel took me to be her lawfully wedded liability. To have and to handcuff, in replacement surgery and in health, for poorer or more poorer, in sanity and insanity, from that day forth, etc, etc, etc. And here we are.

This is what she looks like today. Barely a day older than she looked yesterday. It’s amazing. Though to be fair, she’s never going to look happier than in 75 degrees of beach. And what a beach.

This is Netanya, about 20 minutes north of Tel Aviv. Where my bestest, oldest mate and his own dearly beloved took it upon themselves to host the two of us for a few days of all-you-can-eat, giyyus-yer-car-keys, when’s-tea-time, sorry-about-the-mess-in-the-bathroom and wonderful relaxation. They’ll think twice next time. But the beach there is just… well, just like the picture, really. In the other direction is a beach bar. Israel does beach bars brilliantly, hundreds of sofas, great food, booze and, our own particular addiction: iced coffee. All delivered by dozens of Gal Gadots rushing round in sports gear. You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave.

The iced coffee is special because its virtually calorie free. Except for the calories. But we’re on holiday!!!! They don’t count!!

However, to the great relief of our dear friends, who have pre-booked some intensive therapy, we left Netanya for a little place called Hertzliya, half way between Netanya and Tel Aviv. So we can recover from them!!! And to chill out on different beaches and look forward to the massive national event occurring tomorrow. My birthday. In fact, by being here, its become an international celebration of oldness. And the day I become an official old age pensioner. OMG.

Happy Anniversary

A xxxx