Heather Fell, Olympic modern pentathlete silver medalist, writes about her life 'on and off' the track.

A week in California— and not far from LA — but no I hadn't flown across the pond for the Oscar celebrations.

Thanks to my adequate performance in the national selection series I'd earned my place on the team for the first World Cup of the season, which just happened to be in Palm Springs.

The chance to air my summer wardrobe and the anticipation of uninterrupted blue skies certainly got me excited. However, it was nearly just a dream. Travelling through Terminal 5 at Heathrow is enjoyable in itself, with plenty of enticing shops and a comfortable lounge to distract one. Having made the most of the amenities the time flew and I found myself reaching the gate two minutes too late. Understandably my desperate pleas were met by unsympathetic staff who informed me my bags were to be offloaded. Thankfully luck was on my side. After just a small fee I boarded a later flight that reached Dallas in time for my original connection, where I caught up with my teammates. As a result I did have to survive with no luggage for 24 hours, but I think that was a small price to pay.

This was my first visit to the East coast but my third time in the 'large' country. I still can't comprehend the sheer size of everything, from the shops, the buildings, the cars, the portion sizes and obviously the people. It seems that their ethos is the bigger the better, but this certainly doesn't begin to compensate for such a lack of history and character. I'm surprised to find myself looking forward to returning to 'good old Blighty,' with the small exception of our weather.

That said I was tempted to change my flights and celebrate my 'birthday week' in the sunshine, but I'm a home girl at heart.

Times readers can stay updated with what Heather is up to via twitter:heatherfellnews