Home Again

    Another comfortable night and I was able to get everything ready and sorted in my two new bags.  My shuttle arrived right on time and I was able to check in at Sydney airport.  Because I am going on Qantas to LA and then on jetBlue to Boston I wasn't able to check my bags through to Boston.  I have about a three hour wait between flights so I am hoping we are on time.  
      The flight to LA was actually not too bad, except that there is so little room between seat rows in economy -- and when the person in front of you decides to put their chair back you really feel kind of claustrophobic.  I amused myself watching innumerable movies, TV comedies and every once in a while checking to see where we were.  Luckily I was able to get an aisle seat, so I could get up and move around when I wanted.
      Finally reached LA where I picked up my bags and went over to jetBlue to check in.  I hadn't figured on having to pay for the extra check-in bag since I thought it was just going to be checked through to LA, but because I was on two different airlines they got me.  I was also once again reminded of the difference between the relatively easy domestic flights in Australia and the whole procedure for international and US flights (take off your shoes, 3 oz of liquids in carry-ons, etc).  Welcome back....
      After a 15 hour flight, my LA to Boston flight of about five and a half hours seemed like nothing, but I did feel pretty pooped by the time we arrived at Logan.  I was waiting at the baggage carousel for my stuff when I felt a hand on my shoulder, and it was CELIA!  She surprised me and came to meet me, which was the most wonderful way to return.  We took a taxi back to the PP2, with me jabbering most of the way about my trip and the two of us so happy to see each other.  After spending some time with me at home she got on the bus to go back to her place.  
     I really feel so blessed to have such wonderful and thoughtful kiddos, and at each end of the trip there was something special and memorable for me that made the ending of my adventure a bit less difficult.  I am a lucky mum.....