Trip day zero:
Perfect autumn day outside - slept fitfully and woke early, organised stuff in an orderly fashion into shoulder bag, etc. Had last decent coffee for several weeks, and now I am sitting waiting for ride to airport (I have nice friends).

Last few days I have been busy being unemployed, getting warrant of fitness on hair, teeth, and other bits and now, having had flying visit to Chch for our most excellent Granny's 90th, I am off to Dublin this afternoon. It will take me nearly a day and a half to get there as I am a cheap bastard and elected to have two stops on journey as opposed to one; but that's fine - I'm not in any hurry.