Half time

Yesterday I realised, to my dismay, that half of my wonderful holiday is already over. I’ve never taken a holiday this long in my life. Until now, it was hardly possible, as it was difficult to leave the publishing house on my own for so long. But now my team works so well together that I can confidently leave things in their hands, knowing that everything is running smoothly. It’s such a relief, and it does me a world of good to have a proper holiday.

This morning I woke up feeling nauseous, with a headache and backache… I’ve probably – in 40 degrees in the shade! – sweated too much; I’ve been drinking plenty, but haven’t taken in enough minerals. The fact that a thunderstorm is on the way doesn’t exactly make things any better. My friends have perked me up with a massage and some electrolyte water. I’m treating myself to a very lazy day today anyway. So far, I’ve only seen the Capitol here (which is bigger than the one in Washington) – the other sights will just have to wait.

My friends here are building up a network of artists. In the Bloom House Artists can live and work here for a while. Fashion, film, writing – there’s a real hub of creativity here. Most of them are away at the moment, but they’ll be back towards the end of my stay.