So we're getting close now. 1 more day to go before we leave. This is the last chance for WiFi so this will be my last blog until Seattle. Feeling OK about going and as I look around I know that I am in good company and that facing this thing together we will get through. This is all about the team. I'm as ready as I'll ever be. Today has been my last day off and we went strawberry picking! This area is well known for its strawberries and they had arranged a vi...

Hello again from Qingdao! I've spent today immersing myself in Chinese culture. Firstly a visit to a local community centre with displays of dance, calligraphy and martial arts. It's been a beautiful day. Cold and crisp but sunny. This afternoon we went to the old town, ate delicious soup in a Chinese greasy spoon, found a beautiful bay by the sea, ate spicy fried squid on a stick, visited a space needle viewing platform (very high!), got stranded, negotiatated...

So, decision made. I'm staying. I've got to finish this. It is the race of my life after all. In other news I had possibly one of the best nights of my life last night at The Lennon Bar. Fab Chinese food, rugby and an amazing live band. (Ride. Sally. Ride was a classic) and yes Team Totton there was even dancing on tables - I couldn't help myself! The halyard dance was a classic. Top night with all the crews. WiFi here is a bit pants but have managed to Skype ...

DaNang to Qingdao Week1 Sea sickness claimed me for 3 days. It seemed longer and in 3 days my life moved in to survival mode. I've never pleaded with God before but I did in those dark hours, equally to keep me safe and then just to end it all quickly. A break in the weather helped me recover fortunately, or maybe it was God but I'm glad it's over. It's been warm and humid still and ranged from rough to dead calm. We have been mid fleet for a while but I suspe...

It's the last whole day tomorrow before we sail (Friday). Danang had been amazing. Last minute maintenance jobs will keep us busy right up to the off. I've even met the ambassador to Hanoi and yes, he was spoiling us! I've been on an emotional visit to a school for children affected by the legacy of Agent Orange from the Vietnam war. They were as happy and funny as the guys at home and I loved being with them. Vietnam has a very turbulent history and it's a cri...