....and she's off! Well folks I have managed to get myself from Stockport to Manchester Airport in one piece, I am all checked in and have found the Escape lounge to collect my free glass of wine, thank you Barclays Premier Life account.

Had a hectic few days sorting things out and a ridiculous list of things to do. 'The List' varied from put house on the market to buy blister plasters and I did dream about it a few times...sad I know! Oh well, I think I got to the end of it...

I've had a number of farewell meals and catch ups with friends which have been lovely, it feels a but like the last time I disappeared but that was for 12 months! 5 weeks is just a holiday really but any excuse for leaving drinks ;)

I'm flying for 7 hours to Dubai and then have a 3 hour wait before connecting to KL.

My gate opens in 20 minutes and I am under strict instructions from Karen to get there early and jump up if they ask for a lone traveller, I am even wearing a pashmina in a vain attempt to get an upgrade. I'll let you know how it goes.

Right, kindle time, I have restrained myself from buying Heat magazine and will mostly reading very cultured books on this holiday ;)

Will try and blog again from Dubai, I'm sure their lounge will be much better than this Manchester effort, although the Shiraz is going down well

K x