back in the land of the long white cloud

Take off: Sydney airport
sunshine
blue skies
21 degrees
heavy traffic in the air and down on the runway
the wait for our aircraft's ascent made bearable by a view of a plane twisting and turning up in the sky, its tail emitting a cloud-like substance that spelled an advertising message "Code Black. Go to Donut King"

Touchdown: Auckland airport
rain
grey skies
14 degrees
gusty winds
grrrrrrrrrrr

The sight of husband and daughter brings that warm cozy feeling of being home. No emotional outbursts in the arrivals area.

In the two weeks that I was away, Cerise had grown slimmer and taller. She's memorized all 16 songs in her praise and worship CD; improved her execution of her handstand; and now ties her shoe laces with ease!

This was my first trip without the company of Cerise and it taught me that a baby/toddler/junior school aged child is the best travel accessory you can have. For with it, you are well looked after by airport staff and flight attendants who will constantly offer a smile, a hand, a shoulder, an extra pillow, blanket or cup of water, small talks, and a top up of snacks. Without it, you are as invisible as the air they breathe you might as well camouflage yourself with the upholstery of the airplane's seats.

DID YOU KNOW? .... The first international airport to open was the Croydon Airport in South London. It was the main airport for London before it was replaced by Northolt Aerodrome, London Heathrow Airport and London Gatwick Airport.