This is a very brief post to announce my imminent departure for two weeks to Mozambique (mostly work, hopefully a little bit of pleasure) and to say a very special thank you to Jody Day of Gateway Women for allowing me to guest blog on her fabulous site and for making my post look so groovy. You can read it here: The Power of Testimony – and check out Jody’s posts while you’re there. The experience has been a reminder that we’re stronger when we’re working together, that collaboration is key and mutual cheerleading is not only fun but also gives us a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. So thank you Jody for giving me that space. And this space on my blog is available for you when you have time, or for anyone else who would like to share their thoughts.

So, Mozambique. Anyone who’s followed this blog for a while will know my last experience there was challenging. I blogged about my split personality and the mixed feelings I had at the end of my last African trip. I expect there will be challenges over the next few weeks but at least on this occasion I’ve learned from my past mistakes and taken a fair amount of action to look after myself.

I successfully argued with my employers to fly premium economy so I’m looking forward to some more leg room and a bit of sleep. And I have a sleeping pill on hand in case sleep doesn’t come (although I admit I’m a little nervous about taking one – maybe I’ll start with half). I have a range of ointments and creams should my blepharitis (nasty eye condition) flare up again because of the travel, stress and lack of sleep. And I’ve also made sure I have a few days at the end of the journalism training course I’m leading to relax, hopefully in the sunshine. We’ll see how it goes but it feels good to be looking after myself.

Oh yes, and I’m travelling in my very comfortable tracksuit bottoms, liberated by the fact that I no longer have to worry about dressing to impress that potential husband I might meet in the check-in queue or sitting next to me on the plane!