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We travelled from Melbourne to Sydney today. Got to the airport with plenty of time to spare, although it took us almost 2 hours to get checked in and to our gate. We got to the gate with about 20 minutes before boarding started, so we were all pleased with ourselves.

In total we had something like 14 bags that got checked, plus a backpack and other carry-ons for each of us. So I guess it was more like 20 bags altogether. Qantas was not as helpful as last year, and we ended up having to pay for some of the excess.

We boarded the plane and found that we were in the very back row of a very empty plane. It was a huge plane but probably only half full, most of those people being in the front. So we had the back half to ourselves, got settled, and survived the most turbulent take off any of us have experienced. A few of us, myself included, got queasy and had to reach for the barf bags just in case. Thankfully we didn't throw up, but it was the first time I thought I would spew on a plane.

After the rough start snacks and drinks were served. It's one of our favorite things about flying in Australia - despite the fact that it was an hour flight, we got free snacks, plus wine and beer. I had a nice chardonnay while the boys enjoyed VBs and Heinekens. The flight attendants took a liking to us and gave us extra snacks and drinks. Needless to say, when we got off that plane we were all happy, relaxed, and ready to embrace Sydney.

Our luggage all came through, no broken guitars, but one suitcase did lose the handle. Unfortunately it's a suitcase we borrowed from my parents (sorry Mom & Dad - forgot to mention that.) We are getting a new one to replace it, courtesy of the airline. I think it was about time for them to get some new luggage anyway....