On a wing and a prayer

Back to the Monday Series of holy, godlike Blips. Today Hermes, Messenger for the Greek Gods. Also the name of one of Germany's biggest parcel delivery companies. In a test of parcel companies this month, the German version of Which put DHL (The Post office) first and Hermes second. UPS was at the bottom.

None of the companies came out well on the rate of damaged parcels but I believe they were badly packed. They seem to have mainly used styropor chips which are only suitable for filling and no good at keeping goods secure. Importnat the individual objects don't get the chance to move within the box and so better to make sure they are securely fixed in position.

My theory will be tested now, having given up a package for my family in Ireland. Also the first time I have ever used Hermes. I am a DHL/post office fan but for this heavy shipment, Hermes offers a much better rate. Contains jars of honey, some porcellain, delicate light wood items, and even a plate which was a last minute filler and not as well packed as I would have liked. That may suffer.

Will now be tracking the shipment with interest.

The Blip is of the shop that has the Hermes Agency with the A board outside and on the roof the Hermes logo. Mitschkas Gift shop in Erkheim. Loads of bits, daughter Kate would have liked to have seen but I had no idea never having been in the shop. Next time I will go with the box open and a bit of space! We do have a Hermes agency in the bakery in Sontheim but they are closed Monday afternoon.

Then went for a walk with the dogs in the really dreadful grey misty 2°C fields on the edge of Erkheim. It had drizzled overnight. Can't work out why it wasn't snow. Feels cold enough.