Australian Christmas-Day 1

Topping the list at one of the easiest travel experiences I have ever had, our trip over was really a breeze! Hoover dropped us at the curb at LAX, and while we were in line waiting to check in a kind employee opened up the ropes and took us to the front of an empty line, "because we were travelling with little ones". After we checked in our GINORMOUS bags we went and grabbed a bite to eat in the airport and got on board the plane.

(This picture was taken just moments after getting off of our flight in Brisbane. Happy Travelers!

Virgin Australia was great, with it's funky mood lighting and funny antimated safety briefings. The in-flight entertainment was really great, with tons of current movies, TV shows, games, etc. They served a hot dinner and glass of wine after take off...we watched a few movies and tried to get some sleep. The kids slept great. We awoke a few hours before arrival, ate some breakfast and watched another movie and we were there! 7100+ miles, and it was not bad at all.

Arrived into Brisbane around 6:30AM, and after an hour getting through customs we were in Clive's car headed to his home. The drive from the airport to their home was around 45 minutes, and when we arrived Johanna had a chilled glass of Champagne and a delicious hot breakfast pie waiting for us. Yum! We got the full tour of the Raharuhi's beautiful home...and the kids of course wanted to immediately get in the pool. Beautiful weather, low 80's with a nice breeze, an amazing outdoor living area where we can sit, watch the kids swim and play, and just CHILL OUT.

Spent the day relaxing and trying hard to stay awake as we had been up for such a long time. Went to a cool fish/seafood market and got a whole snapper for dinner. Clive and Johanna took us around and showed us some local spots, including a waterfront parcel they are considering putting their next home on.

Came back to their house and Rob and Johanna went to work in the kitchen and made an incredible dinner. By 9PM we were completely bushed, and fell asleep as soon as we hit the pillow.

An awesome first day!