Monday 3^rd August, 2020 1830

I'm still batting straight greens (see photo for those not in China) 

and hoping not to be taken aside at the airport on Thursday. The packing is mostly done, just a few last minute bits to go in just before I leave. I have a checklist and it's great but on occasion I have still managed to forget something. Booze and smokes are there (most important), shedload of clothes and the laptop case is carry-on. Medicines go in there although in China not so important as it's all over the counter instead of a four-weekly prescription in the UK for the rest of your life.

We haven't done much over the weekend, a wine run on Saturday followed by Burger King as I haven't been eating. In fact last night I took a slice of pizza from the freezer, heated it and managed three small bites. Luncheon meat and egg salad tonight, still never ate much but respectable at least. The last thing anyone needs when they are flying is Delhi Belly.

Life lately for me has been pure idleness, spending ten hours a night in bed even when I'm awake and even Jody has slept like a cat. She has yet still to make up her mind if she will join me on the 16^th in Shanghai. It's up to her, I'm lazy there too – either in the hotel room or some bar/restaurant.

It is quite possible I won't blog again before I leave but you may rest assured there will at least be photographs.