Setting off to work & setting out on holiday (I’ve a bigger bag with me that I usually take).

I’m ambivalent as to whether I am prepared of not. I’ve probably got everything, but I can’t be sure & do I need to be sure? We’ll get by. My biggest worry is how Louise will do with her aching back carrying large bag? She also has the difficult job of closing up the house before leaving and making sure the kids are ready & not running off to play at the last minute… this might prove harder.

Jude cut his toe – that might make things for troublesome for him… He was awake as I left this morning (I left later because I deemed it necessary) and he was in a sweet mood. He was nursing his toe when I went up to brush my teeth & I told him we had some plasters downstairs (don’t worry). He seemed reluctant to actually go downstairs though (it was just before the ‘magic’ 7 o’clock) so he started tidying up some Mr Men books. He was quiet & he was sweet.

Esme slept through the night on her bed again – stumbling up to Louise after I’d had a shower & actually staying asleep, (“Where’s daddy?” “He’ll be here in minute” “…”) She was still asleep when I left – hopefully she’ll sleep in a little – it’ll do her good today. I’m not convinced that she’ll be able to maintain wakefulness over a long train journey… mind you that could all pose problems later this evening when we’re trying to settle them all again.