AND WE'RE OFF

Mad scramble to prepare for this flight in the last 36 hours since we decided to fly out to be with our son in hospital. Not the closest shave I have had - once I booked a flight to Canada 3 hours before I got on the plane.

Much as I dislike long haul flights, there is something about the moment when they close the door and you know no-one can reach you for 8.5 hours that makes you feel quite free.