Managed to change sleeper tickets to get 14.06, only problem is train to Plymouth, bus to St Austell and then a train. Anyway, better than the straight through train at 23.45. We will be in our own beds tonight!

In natural history museum having lunch now, seven and a half hours before flight. Just killing time now before going to airport. Actually, I am enjoying it-loads more than just dinosaurs! There is a new area called the Cocoon where you see specimens close up, also windows into area where scientists work (they employ c200). Looks just like CSI lab. Museum gets 4.1m visitors a year. Stats come the big screen TV in cafe area, I am not making this up!

Now this is really embarrassing, dad's suitcase is screaming like it is full of cats. The wheels are making a really bad noise - the constant scream is attracting quite an audience. He said it is not something you check, down from attic, pack, carry to car - only later do you drag it and find out . . .

On plane tonight at 9:00 pm won't go to sleep just watch TV probably. Bet they'll try and give you dinner although aeroplane food is sick. All I like is the drinks when John goes to sleep I'll get a drink for me and him but I'll drink it!

I guess it really starts here. Sleeper to London, love the free drinks and nibbles, hate not having TV in compartment. Shared berths get no TV, but wait - big surprise, dad has booked 2 singles, so we get a TV each!