[composed on the plane and uploaded 12 hours later]
I’m writing this from my airplane seat, my home for the last 14 hours. By the time you read it I’ll have been in Sydney at least long enough to find a WiFi port. I figured I’d get a head start on posting since when my feet hit the ground I’ll be more interested in exploring than writing.
This has been the longest flight I’ve ever undertaken and yet it hasn’t really felt long. Surprisingly comfortable when I consider the distance. I planned pretty well for it, all things considered. The biggest key to my comfort was the inflatable neck pillow I took with me. Without that my neck would be a wreck right now. Inflated halfway, it provided a comfy cushion for my sleeping noggin.
The other key was being lucky to have an empty seat next to me. I got a window seat over the wing, which allowed me a comfortable snooze and plenty of room to move around. The 747-400 was new and very roomy. The only drawback was the lack of a power port for my PC, though I didn’t really use it much.
I was enthralled by the rising sun over my left shoulder as we neared Australia. The light breaking through the South Pacific coulds was spectacularly beautiful. I mentally put myself back on those waves 40,000 feet below us, looking at that sunrise from the deck of a ship. Sailors can’t help but love these seas.
There was a short video introduction to Sydney shown as we approached the coast. I’ve read books about it and watched some videos in preparation but the shots the inflight video showed took my breath away. I’m fortunate to have brought along a new digital camera. Sydney’s beauty will put it through its paces.
In about an hour 8:30AM Sunday, Sydney time) I’ll pass through immigration and customs, pick up my bags, and meet Clinton, my Australian counterpart. Clinton visited North Carolina a few weeks ago for my training. Now I get to return the favor with a visit to his home.
I’ve got lots of work to be done while I’m here. I’m hoping there will be time to explore.
I haven’t even landed yet and already I’m planning my return!