Arrived in beautiful Perth after a very long flight which was split into 3 journeys. The first was six and a half hours to Dubai, where most of the passengers got off the plane and a new lot embarked. We had to disembark to allow the plane to refuel. By the time we had got off, walked through the airport to departures, been to the loo, it was time to get back on the plane. The next step was to Brunei. The approach over Borneo was fantastic, the rainforests were clear and plentiful and a mass of green. We also had to disembark here. We arrived half an hour early after a seven and a half hour flight and had a two hour wait. The airport was modern but small, with just a coffee shop and a souvenir stall. I sat and talked to the woman who I had sat all the way on the plane with. She was setting out for a new life in Thailand working in an orphanage. I then caught the plane to Perth. This was a five and a half hour flight and it was really bumpy most of the way. I think I must have slept for most of it. We arrived on time and I think I can honestly say I had, had enough of flying for that day, although I wasn't really tired. I was met at the airport by the Laganas and whisked off to the suburbs of Perth, to Willetton. It was great to see them again.

After a reasonable nights sleep I awoke next morning to bright sunshine and warmth, what a joy after the long cold winter in England. A leisurely read of the papers, a leisurely breakfast and a cuddle and play with the dog, plus a catching up of news gave a perfect morning of relaxation. We then went up to Kings Park in Perth to see the view of Perth and Perth Harbour. There were lots of children and families around enjoying the weather and Sunday. Picnics and games showed the outdoor Aussie life to perfection. Ice cream completed that part of the day and then home to pack for Melbourne and onward.

The day started at 0430, ready to get to the airport for the 0620 flight to Melbourne. This went hitch free! I am now writing this on the aircraft, half way to Melbourne, crossing over water. I can only assume we are hugging the Australian coastline.

Just sorted out the weekend after I get back. A weekend in London for my birthday. Staying in the Goodenough Club in Bloomsbury. Visiting the Charles Dickens Museum, maybe the Dickens Inn and on Saturday evening, going on the Jack the Ripper walk, all around Brick Lane - that sounds like a trip to the American Diner.
I've also got the trip to London to the quilt exhibition at the V&A. Ooooh! more material!! So two really good things to look forward to.
Now ready completely for my trip. Nothing else to do except go!

I've weighed my case and it's approximately 19Kg, must be all the Marmite for Sharon and the shower gel for Lee!!! One more kilo allowed. Royal Brunei are a little stingy and dry as well. Still, as long as they get me there...

A week to go. Clothes sorted and technology sorted. No more worries, I can enjoy my last week in the cold and snow!

Have everything sorted to go in my case. I now just have to sort out my technology to make sure I take all I need. It's always a problem remembering everything that is needed, particularly the correct wires and plugs for each piece of equipment. I have to take laptop, digital camera, portable mini printer, livescribe, iphone, other phone for local calls, portable hard drive, usb sticks (for stories), ebook, ds. Maybe that's it. Quite sad that isn't it?! Maybe I won't take all that! I'll let you know!

18 days to go, but who's counting!