Packing and preparation

Well, I am out of work mode now, but it's been a strange limbo week of packing, sorting, last minute panics and catching up with various friends before I go. Had leaving drinks and curry after work on Friday and Liz came round last weekend to collect the keys as she will be flat sitting for me while I'm away. Met up with Sian on Sunday for a 'shopping and sushi' session in Kensington (all I bought was insect repellant) and had downed a few glasses of rosé last night with Alex in the SWC.

It's funny but knowing that I will be away for a while has really made me appreciate all the friends and life I have in the UK; or perhaps I'm just getting sentimental in my old age? However I will certainly not be missing the British weather! It may be the end of the monsoon rains in India, but I am so looking forward to some warmth and sunshine.

Also thanks to Aroop for lending me Paul Brunton - 'A Search in Secret India', which I will be taking with me. Paul Brunton was a journalist who visited India in the early 1930s and was one of the first people to introduce the ideas of Indian philosophy, yoga and meditation to the West. The book chronicles his journey through India where he meets various gurus and yogis - some genuine, some not. His writing style comes across as a bit old fashioned now and perhaps sometimes a bit pompous, but I'm looking forward to reading the whole thing...

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1844130436/