They grow up so fast. Can you believe my baby sister turned 18 last month (April)? 18! I can sense a number of you quizzically looking at the screen, convinced you read in my last post I had just turned 32… and you’re now doing the maths. Can that be right?

Yes, yes. When i say ‘baby’ sister, i mean it. There’s 14 years between us – which can be a whole generation if you live in some parts of Basingstoke – a trick that my mum picked up on quite early on, telling me to “control my child” when out and about, accompanied by a childish snigger.

She thought she was hilarious.

No one believed her. Mainly because at that age I still looked like a boy and most people were convinced I was waiting, hand on latch, to come out the closet. The all girls school didn’t help rumours. My unhealthy obsession with Boyzone did. But that’s another story. I digress…

What do you get an 18 year old for their birthday? Not just any 18 year old, but your precious little sister? The timing was actually perfect (and planned!) as I had a little something on order for myself which meant I had the perfect present for Lydia. It might be second hand but I didn’t think she’d mind…

On her birthday a rather overwhelmed Ldy-loo took receipt of my much loved VW Golf. She was crying, i was laughing, Kit was happy snapping the reaction; it was a lovely moment and I was so happy I could give her something that special for her big day. The age gap does have it’s benefits. When Kit turned 18 I was 22 and certainly not in a position to get him anything as extravagant as a car – but i’ll make it up to you bro, one day, promise! 

At around the same time Rob bought himself a road bike. Nutter. Spurred on by Traynor, who has been riding for years, he decided a new health kick was in order – i certainly wasn’t going to complain and actively encouraged it.

But it wasn’t long until after every ride there was a gentle prod, suggestion or comment about how i would “really enjoy it”, or how it would be easier for him if he “had someone to go with” <cue: puppy dog eyes>… it went on and on.

I gave in. I bought a bike. Now who’s the nutter? <Sigh> It’s actually, ridiculously good fun. Except hills. Obviously. And turns out there are quite a few round here. But I’m glad he convinced me.

I hadn’t done any exercise for… i dunno, since school? It’s because I’m allergic to gyms though – really nothing i can do about it 😉 So it feels good to be getting out and about in the fresh air, working up a bit of a sweat in a somewhat paltry effort to improve myself.

“Improve myself”? Did I actually just say that? My god. Welcome to your 30’s.

Oh, and in case you were wondering…  my little ‘something on order’ arrived 😉 I stuck with VW as I love their cars. It’s my new little baby and I LOVE IT!!! Now we just have to hope for a good summer!

*2 bikes, 2 cars and a coming of age.