On Thursday I'm going away on holiday for two and a half weeks - which is longer than any time abroad since the beginning of 2000. In fact it's only the third holiday I've had since I began this blog. The last time I went abroad was five days in France over two years ago.

And yet I am a natural traveller.

So what's been the problem? Well first I have been skint and second I've had no one to travel with. Although I rather enjoy travelling on my own.

The third reason I am shy to admit. Until I gave up smoking dope, I often suffered withdrawal symptoms (mostly lack of sleep) when I went abroad without it - yet recently I came to think that taking some with me seemed too big a risk. Away, I frankly craved the stuff - and it often made me look forward to my return.

Nevertheless the main reason I have been abroad so little and for such short bursts is the demands of my mother and sister.

I will be away for three weekends. "Your sister is going to have to look after me" my mum sniffs - ignoring the fact that someone could be hired to fill in at weekends when M, her carer, is away. "I hope nothing comes up with the paperwork." She means if a gas bill needs paying, which he has made my responsibility.

Blah, blah - she's old.

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