Not with as much discomfort, however. Whether sailing, hitchhiking, or bussing, time taken to travel just doesn't seem as brutal as when flying internationally.

I flew to Paris, leaving Sydney at 2pm on Saturday, arriving almost exactly 24 hours later, after two gruelling economy class flights.

Then I spent a frustrating two hours at Charles de Gaulle International Airport, with surly officious and pedantic officials, the most confusing queuing system I've seen the world over, and a last minute gate change. This last meant another security check.

With the two long haul flights down, I only had another 2 short hops to go to get to Malaga (final destination Marbella) These flights were with Swissair, that (besides the gate change) were exemplary wrt to punctuality and leaving exactly on time.

Once in Malaga, it was but an hour by car to Marbella. But now, I'm falling asleep at my keyboard - so I'll head to bed.

 R42

We're nearing the end of the second term of Amanzi's first year in High school. For her this is great, because although she's been playing her violin for almost 4 years now, only in high school has she had the opportunity to play in a band or ensemble.

All of her sisters played instruments that where included in the Primary school bands here. (Trumpet, Flute etc)

Well, here she is then:

First: "My Girl"

Then "Pirates of the Caribbean"

Aint she sweet

R42