THURSDAY 4 NOVEMBER - Last full day in the US

Today is a significant day for my family as it is the 92nd anniversary of the day my grandfather won the Victoria Cross during the last great battle on the Western Front in WW1 - the crossing of the Sambre Canal. His valour is remembered with pride.

The date will also henceforth be memorable as the date on which I became personally acquainted with the Pacific Ocean. The air temperature was an amazing 95 degrees F so, as the surf was up, I was pleased to be able to spend a cooling half hour in the waves revising my long dormant body surfing skills.

The main purpose of my visit to Oceanside was to call to visit my relations Bernard and Ethel Florack who live here in very active retirement. After three weeks travelling the continent studying services for older people it was very fitting to spend time today with senior members of my own family. They are living independently and keeping busy and it is a wonderful testament to the benefits of the Californian lifestyle that Bernard, at over 90, is still employed three days a week as a "greeter" at his local Wallmart store.


At the end of a beautiful day in this attractive part of Southern California I was treated to a spectacular end to my time in the US by a fantastic sunset.


A fitting finale to a memorable trip. Looking forward to getting home.

Location:Oceanside, California, USA