Under Siege XXI: Every Time We Say Goodbye...

We are off tomorrow. We hope to be back in a couple of weeks as there is much to do here in terms of aid work and rebuilding. I have completed my list of 'Brits left in the country' and have handed over the prized spreadsheet containing all the names. I have also done a bit (a very little bit!) of a tidy up in the flat and finished doing the washing. My bags are packed. I have a medium green bag and a small rucksack. It's amazing what you can condense your life into when necessary. The two things I am most upset to be leaving are Panda, my cuddly toy I have had since a baby, and a picture my Granny left me. Everything else I am obviously sad to leave, but can ultimately be replaced.

Jemimah has agreed to mind the house in our absence. I fear she may be a flaky house-sitter as she looks almost ready to fly. However, Sydney will soon be producing another egg or two so hopefully they will be able to keep an eye on things.

We're off for a couple of drinks with the friends we have left tonight. The bombs in the southern suburbs have been getting closer and closer to quite a few friends' houses. When I see what they are having to deal with - the uncertainty of whether they have a home or not, it puts all our worries into perspective.

So let's 'yalla bye' as they say in Lebanon. We will be back. There is still loads to see, do and experience here. And when it's all over, you must all come and visit. The Lebanese economy needs you! More importantly, the Lebanese people need your support.