Home At Last! - Jul 9, 2009 - Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

We had a good breakfast in the hotel and finalized our packing. When we got to the desk there was a shuttle bus waiting, so we quickly checked out and boarded it. We suspect it was the one before the one we planned to get, but it was late. We got to the airport and went to check in. There was only one person manning the premium check in desk and the person being attended to had some problem. Although the line at the regular check in was much longer, we would have been much quicker there. We eventually got checked in and saw the security line. We decided that, though we were early, we would join it right away - one of the better decisions we have made. While I stood in line, Christine went and got some puzzle books that are only available in the UK. We eventually reached a security desk where our documents were checked and sent to a screening line. We stood for a long while a group of young people were searched. Instead of pulling them aside, the line was kept waiting while they were dealt with. We learned later that one of them had tent pegs and a mallet in his carry on bag. We eventually reached the scanning machine. I got through without a problem, but Christine was pulled aside and searched. She was dressed as she had been in Amsterdam and similarly in all the other flights which has never caused a problem. Once we gathered our stuff from this zoo we headed for the departure lounge, only to be stopped and told to take off our shoes, which then went through another x-ray machine. When Christine demanded to know why others were being let through, she was told it was random. The couple behind us who had been fretting about missing their plane were also included in this random check. By the time we reached the departure lounge the atmosphere was somewhat tense.

We did not have long to wait before were on our way to the plane. If we had waited for the bus we had intended getting, which would still have put us at the airport 2.5 hours before our departure, it would have been doubtful if we would have made the plane, assuming we had the same hold-ups we experienced.

That, however, was the last of our problems. We had an extremely good flight to Calgary with and attentive cabin crew. We did watch "Marley and Me", starting with laughter and ending with many tears. Thankfully, the film reduces the pathos that extends further in the book. Those who have never had a dog will not understand our emotions, and I could never explain them. Those of you who have, need no explanation. These were compounded when we came home and discovered that both our next door neighbour and a friend of Fiona's had both had to put their dogs to sleep while we were gone.

When the second meal was served it was pasta. The attendant gracefully substituted one of the crew meals for mine. While it was described as potato skins and did not look appetizing, it turned out to be very tasty. We got to Calgary and quickly had our luggage and checked in to West Jet for our flight to Edmonton. We had a snack and went to the departure lounge, with no problems at security - not even Christine who was attired exactly as at Gatwick. We read and waited for the plane. It boarded and took off on time. While there was a little turbulence landing in Edmonton, it was a good flight - even though we had a lady "driver". I think it is the first time we have flown with a lady piloting the plane.

As soon as we arrived, Fiona and the grandchildren ran up to us. It was good to see them again. We collected our bags and talked all the way home where we were greeted by our own 14 year old dog, to be reminded again of her frailty and the limited time we will have with her. Darcy, Fiona and the grandchildren leave tomorrow for a weekend in Drumheller, so we had to make the most of the brief time, as we leave on Sunday for Winnipeg, Enderby, Victoria and Parksville and will not be home again till about August 16.

Well, that is it for another extended trip. Highlights? For me St. Petersburg. The history, the omnipresence of gold, the relative freedom obvious amongst the population all provided insights of which I had some knowledge, but little appreciation. For Christine, the day spent in and around Geiranger. It was a beautiful day with indescribable scenery. The waterfalls, while prolific, were also unique in the way they fell from the rocks into the fjord. It is a beautiful and, in places, almost eerie, place.

Overall, a most enjoyable time with contrasts of the familiar in Scotland to the unknown languages of Scandinavia, Russia and Estonia; from the scenic beauty of Norway's fjords to the urban bustle of the Baltic cities. The cruise ship was an enjoyable experience with more comforts than we needed - not to mention more food than we needed. I was pleasantly surprised to discover I had "only" put on 4.6 lbs, and Christine half that. Given our indulgences, we are quite happy!

Well, we are home, albeit briefly, and we hope you have enjoyed travelling with us. Take care and till we see you, or till the next time, "Au revoir".