What Ho!
Yep, I'm on with greasing things and making sure everything I need has the right batteries.
Departure is set for the 27th out of Hull. I'm heading for a huge slap up meal with a mate in Heidelburg, the Friday at the rally, an overnight in Koln then the return leg of a whiskey and odd cigarettes competition with another old friend in Amsterdam (which I know I'll loose, unless the secret weapon (bottle of Port) works). The cold and the snow is a minor risk compared to imminent liver failure but someone has to do it.

The stickers are on my shopping list (along with Dutch Gin, German noodles and a cheese that is known here abouts as a Horace (Terry Pratchett reference)). No need for wonga, I very much doubt any stickers will add up to the value of that stove.
I have the elefant. It's become a bit of a totem after my attempt (Triumph Bonneville solo on road tyres

) in 2006 or was it 2007? The panniers might have been roughly straightened but the Elefant is there behind the screen to remind me to respect this rally. Karen wants it, but it's staying with the bike until I get a rally sticker on there.
Pictures and possibly toxicology reports to follow

Andy