Yes, dear friends, once again I expect to be conspicuous by my absence (ooops, I nearly typed 'abstinence' ) for just over two weeks this time. On Thursday morning I am flying off to sunny and HOT (mmmmnn!) California - Palm Springs to be precise to stay with my ol' pal Jim, who has a place there.

Exciting days lie ahead: First, two new kilts await me and a third will be delivered before I fly home. Rocky and/or Kelly at 'USA Kilts' have rushed me two of their Semi-Trads (ideal for the Palm Springs climate just now) in MacBeth Ancient and Tara tartans. Details of the one to be delivered I shall keep to myself for the time being!

Next, three days after I arrive, I am being whisked off for three nights at the Sahara Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip! That is one town I thought I would never get to see, but now I will. We are not into gambling in any way (well, I do play the National Lottery here in the United Kingdom but that doesn't really count ), but we hope to take in a show or two - and just think of the photo opportunities outside all those amazing hotels!! A visit to the Hoover Dam is also on the agenda.

The following weekend, Palm Springs is going to be hit by the biggest kilts night it has known - with worthies such as Panache and the F-HCAG, The Wizard of BC (Steve), oh and many others, driving or flying in for the event. Just watch out for the photos a few days later!

When, last year, Jim invited me, I thought I would be in for a two-week perod of utter relaxation, lounging by the pool, occasionally applying more Factor whatever, and sipping Campari Sodas as the blazing sun slides behind the tall palm trees - well I hope to do some of that, but the thought of visiting exciting places I could not dream of seeing AND the shaking of hands with numerous brethren and sisters I feel I already know so well but have not actually met, tells me that I am in for an amazing holiday.

So, Bicknell Grange will be darkened for a couple of weeks. Old S-----m, my faithful but wrinkled retainer, will remain here to keep an eye on the security and temperature/climate control system for the Kilt Kollection vaults - so no-one need think they can attempt a break-in during my absence.

See you all in two weeks plus!

Take care,
Ham.