A bar? In the air? The notion of it was heady. I was going to take all my make-up off and apply my lotions and potions so that my skin could keep hydrated, but if there was a bar …

I finished wiping down my seat area and right as I did a cabin crew member offered a gloved hand and said, ‘I’ll take that for you, ma’am.’

Patrick mouthed at me, ‘Ma’am!’ and pulled an impressed face that reflected exactly how I felt, too.

The reminder to turn our electronics to flight mode echoed on the announcement speakers above our heads, and I rifled through my bag to find my phone. Jo had texted me, and before I switched it off I opened her message.

Friend, I am totally with you on this if you’re happy but I just need to do due diligence and ask: are you sure this is a good idea?

There was a follow-up text.

Unless you’re already on the plane together, in which case: have a great holiday!

I smiled. I knew she’d sent her text outside of the group chat. I knew she’d gently check I didn’t want to back out.

I have no clue if it’s a good idea, I wrote back. But I think that’s kind of the point. I’m sick of doing a risk assessment for every decision in my life. If this is a bad idea, I’m confident I will survive it on account of the fact that I am currently surviving worse!!!

I chased it with three crying-laughing emojis to make sure she understood I was being happy-go-lucky and not bitchy. She cared, that was all. But I’d explained myself at brunch and wasn’t going to waste any more energy trying to get her – or anyone – on board. Not least when the seatbelt sign had just pinged on. I was excited! Excitement was awesome!

I trust your judgement, she wrote back. Just make sure you send lots of photos! To the group chat, but to me privately too. I’ll miss you! Also please forward me Patrick’s number in case of emergency. SORRY TO BE A MUM ABOUT IT.

I’ll miss you too, I said, doing as she asked and sending his details through. She had a point. I’ll bring you back a koala xxxxx