In the beginning...

How last minute this has all been I can't even begin to explain, only this morning, even though we set off yesterday, i was removing parts of my bike which were surplus to requirements. For the last few weeks i have been beavering away to sort myself out for the biggest trip of my life. I've been working like a dog to make everything good for the off, rebuilding my bike, being vaccinated for most know diseases, ditching my belongings and saying goodbye. It's been emotional and my feet have barely touched the ground but now we're off.

We cycled yesterday from London to Ashford, 60 odd miles along the less than beautiful and sometimes a little bit scary A20. I shall be aiming for more scenic routes in the future. However the journey for me was a long but good one though James's new and as yet unbroken brooks saddle may have somewhat lessened his enjoyment. Every now and then I would have small moments of the realisation that this is to be my life, journeying around the globe, going under my own steam, seeing... I don't know what but i'm looking forward to it.

I have been talking seriously about doing this for about two and a half years, in fact since i got my first bike in London. So many people have helped to get me this far, family being supportive, friends for their enthusiasm and ever welcome top tips, Therese at Hackney Bike Project for teaching me cycle maintenace, Arup for building my wheels (looking good!). Thank you so much all. This time tomorrow we'll hopefully be on the ferry to france and so it begins, my heart is pounding.