6.am. Alarm. Wake. Dress. Breakfast.

The last of the lasts complete their cycle to make room for the first of the firsts.

The rucksacks make themselves comfy in the boot of the Mercedes and are worried if they are full enough for their trip around the world. Having never flown before, they are eager to get to the bus station for that part of the journey.

The silver Mercedes (in it’s golden age) splutters to life with its people contents anxious to leave. Early in the journey, spluttering continues and the car struggles to ascend George’s lane. Reassuring words fall on worried ears as the car is turned around and discarded back at the barn. The merc splutters towards death…

Cars are exchanged and I drive us to the bus station. A warm tearful goodbye from my parents makes us feel gooey and our bon voyage begins.