VIETNAM - 25th October 2007 My passport arrived back today by registered post, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam multiple entry visa resplendent on page 23, wedged between Hungary and Mongolia. I can't help but stroke it gleefully, this passport holds so many memories of past trips but this coming one is going to be special. I remember going out to Australia to ride my push bike around Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania a good few years ago. I was scared then and the feeling comes back to me now. Apprehension, a physical tightening of the gut, what am I doing this for? Why can't I settle into mature years crocheting, knitting, watching 'Corrie' on telly, why have I got this restless feeling? Am I trying to prove something - you bet I am! That I am still alive and kicking - growing old disgracefully! Going to Mongolia was an epic adventure that was shared. It was wonderful, frightening, totally out of my comfort zone, it was about finding hidden strengths but always there, the back up of a friend. This trip there is no friend. The travel clinic has confirmed I need a boost of Hepatitis B, Typhoid and another Rabies injection to supplement the three that I had before the Mongolian trip in 2005. I also need Malaria tablets. Malarone are the preferred type, having the least side effects, but the cost!!! £2.10 each. One a day for the length of time I am away and for a week on return. I have the Hep B & Typhoid injections and book the Rabies for the beginning of November. A visit to the dentist this morning for a check up showed no problems. As well as sorting myself out I have to think about leaving the freezer stocked with pies, stews, cakes, dinners that can easily be taken out and re-heated. If I make the Christmas cake now will it have disappeared before I go? Don't laugh - it's my way of feeling better about leaving my family. At least they won't starve and I won't feel so guilty about swanning off to the sun for the winter!