And... they're off!

We're on our way, despite having more last minute challenges than we've ever had.

I'm writing this from the Alaska Airlines Boardroom in L.A. (partner of WorldClub/SkyClub, which we're members of). Getting here was a breeze once we were on board the Nort. nhwest flight from Minneapolis (someone else flies the plane). Rita really handled all of the last minute planning and organization for the house and our luggage. I was busily trying to finish an upload of photos from her God Daughter's wedding (we shot two weeks ago). Lots of hurdles were set in our path before leaving.

The construction crew arrived, unannounced, at 7:30 this morning (they were supposed to put in some siding a few weeks ago, but rain prevented it until today). We put the car in our neighbors garage for the next month. That was great. Rita gave Andy the rundown on last minute things for the house. We were to leave for the airport at 2:30, but at 1pm we still hadn't packed. Marilyn and Kathy were right on time (they took us to the airport), so we sorta threw things together. We hoped to carry everything on... but decided it was better to check one bag and sort things out in Sydney. Coming to Security one hour before flight, finding out the the record had RTA instead of RITA (causing the TSA issues, since it didn't match the passport). My leg brace and walking sticks set off alarms, taking a bit extra time. Arrived to the gate to find a seat screw-up, requiring we get a manager involved (we ended up in First Class, thanks to my flight status). Once on the plane, we breathed a sigh of relief.

Gotta run to the plane to Sydney, but wanted you to know we arrived this far. Fun seeing airline folks in Halloween costumes. More when we arrive in AU!