Force Ten

Over the Consuma in a real gale, dead branches and a swathe of green pine blow-outs over the road, and surprisingly little traffic. The temperature was a ridiculously mild 13C. I got some new bulbs put in the car lights and talked estimates with the guys. Then shifted stuff down to the stables - a long bumpy wheelbarrow push that becomes less bumpy with each load.

The wind never let up and I decided to head back a bit early. Still got caught in a stoppage where a big pine had been blown down across the road. The fire brigade came roaring up. I excused myself from the queuing traffic with a three point turn as I feared one of the pines I was stopped under might crush me and the car. A lone member of the Carabinieri complemented me on my decision.

We eventually all got down off the pass.