I've enjoyed some fabulous solo walks over the last few days. Some of them were supposed to be family walks but Nick and his hareem clearly don't realise that fact. They stride ahead of me within 200 meters, leaving me and my ageing legs in their wake.

Highlights were my 12km walk along the rim at the Grand Canyon and the massively rewarding Angels' Landing at Zion. Defying all prior expectations, Nick joined me on the final stretch rock and chain climbing along a cliff edge. I have to admit I was impressed given that he managed the whole thing without looking down once.

Also defying expectations, Ella hasn't yet moaned about hiking, possibly because we've taken to describing hikes as little walks in the way that you tell children that broccoli is a mini-tree. Who knew she'd fall for that.

Nature's wonders have been just that. Las Vegas less so. It's like Disneyland on a drink and drugs bender. But you get a lot of (very luxe) hotel room for your money. Low points - apart from the sleaze, it' s 31c at 6am and 40c in the middle of the afternoon. I actually thought that the soles of my shoes were melting on the pavement yesterday. It's too hot to sit by the pool until dusk so no tanning opportunities for Ella.

We're missing Sam - he'd have loved the hikes although I hope he'll get a chance to do some himself after Camp.

Highlights - Grand Canyon sunrise, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe bend and Zion National Park.

Lowlights - hearing thunder whilst knee deep in a river canyon.