..but we love holidays even more

We've had a great first week of the Easter holidays. Lots of lazing around in our pyjamas and having breakfast late. Also sledging, a trip to my parents' with Oakley's friend James Wiley, a visit to a steam fair, a family day canoeing etc.

And tonight we went to see off the boys on their big adventure. Oakley cried on the way home because he didn't want Quent to go (or, more to the point, he wanted to go too). I think he's waved Quent off one too many times over the past year.

In spite of themselves, the guys seemed pretty well organised by the time they left. And they looked great in their Christie's t-shirts (ignoring the passing resemblance to "4 poofs and a piano") . Even Cliff Richard's crowd didn't have matching t-shirts.

Since they left, I have done a bit of mental maths. 3000 miles. 7 days. Top speed for the Chevy of 60mph. I make that over 7 hours' driving daily at top speed. Which of course they won't do all the time. So let's say 10 - 12 hours' driving each day, excluding breakdowns (which Quent says are inevitable!). I've just realised this isn't just a good excuse for a boys' holiday, this really is quite a challenge.

Thanks so much to everyone for sponsoring the teams. To follow their progress, see www.oneweekineurope.blogspot.com