A journey of 10,000 miles (16,000 kms) begins with a single step.  Very early Wednesday morning I took that first step, and after stops in Sydney and San Francisco, I landed on schedule in Nashville, TN.  Except for being surrounded by – I kid you not – EIGHT babies and kids under 5, on my last leg, everything went surprisingly smoothly.  I highly recommend the upgrade to premium economy for long trips in the 787, the bit of extra leg room makes a huge difference!

After picking up my bags I walked out into a steamy Tennessee summer, with thunderstorms imminent.  Maybe I’m just tired, but the combination of a lazy hazy summer day and the palpable tension of the pending storm seemed to set the right scene for my upcoming travels.  It seemed to advise me to take things slowly and enjoy the road, but at the same time be excited for the adventure. 

My bro picked me up, and my sister-in-law set up a lovely retreat for me in their spare room, with everything that I could want or need.  I desperately need sleep, but I’m safe and well cared for.  Today is a recovery day, but tomorrow I start putting plans into action!