It’s 9am and we’re parked in a truck lay-by just outside the Belgian city of Antwerp. We spent about an hour earlier rearranging the campervan so our crew of six people could lay down and sleep. I was docile in these proceedings as I had slept the last few hours quite comfortably after leaving the ferry. Luckily I’d had foresight of bringing a quilt with me. I’d managed to contort myself around amps and drum kits and get myself covered up. It’s backfired a little now because all the boys are sound asleep and I’m wide awake. I do get some quiet time I suppose.
It was quite funny on the ferry crossing. Joel had ordered a baguette and every time he went to take a bite I’d interrupt him with “Jorl … Can I have a bite of your baguette?” I kept it up for ages and we were in stitches. Joel got his revenge later when back on the bus by pestering me to share my quilt with him.
I’m thinking about the last time I crossed the channel with Dave. It was a nightmare. We ended up being involved in a search and rescue situation. I hate being on ferries and I usually go to Dover because of the shorter crossing time. Last time we ended up being at sea for six hours. I remember the captain declaring that there is a man overboard and continues to quote some old maritime laws. The staff proceed to do a headcount and role call. Twice. Everyone is accounted for twice. Strange. There are reports that one of the crew saw a person dressed all in black on the deck, downing their drink, and jumping off the back of the boat. I could imagine that a few people would go about this way to end their life. Whilst I and everyone else was concerned for the individual, we did have a show to perform and we were running late. Expecting this to be a regular occurrence I asked a member of staff in a considerate manner how long the search would last, so I could update the concert promoters. I was surprised to learn that the staff member had over twenty years of seniority and had never encountered such an event. A friend at home then also sent me a message explaining that it had made the national news. Eventually the search is called off and we’re on our way. I often wonder about that person. Did someone really go overboard? Did the crew imagine it? Was it a stowaway? I guess I’ll never know. Whoever was is often in my thoughts.
On a lighter note we also found time on the ferry to pull some funny faces. I’m torn between Joel or Will for winning that contest. Dave thought Will should win. Pete just pulled his normal face.
We’re going to stay in this lay-by til about midday. The venue said it would let us in early. That’s good. I might be able to sleep better then.
