We are on the countdown to a big adventure. We  have two more days of pre-trip-prep. Meanwhile in the last hour or so, on the other side of the world our friends have set off on a road trip to collect us  next week. Suddenly it all feels very real.

A friendship that has its roots under an Oak tree. The school bus stop in a small Essex village.  Goodness knows where it will take us this December. Sea pools for sure, beaches and coffee shops.

So far the only thing packed is my pencil case and two sketch books. There is a pile of clothes to be sorted through and gifts to be wrapped. Passports have been found…