Hazy Days

Even though I was a well-travelled toddler, this morning is the first time I've been able to fully experience the highs and lows (pardon the pun) of flying. I think I coped well for a first time flyer, if you put my sweaty palms and nervous, darting glances at the emergency exits down to excitement rather than sheer terror. I'm certainly not frightened of flying, but having a window seat next to the wing and having full oportunity to watch it wobble alarmingly up and down as we taxied down the runway did nothing to inspire my confidence in our flimsy craft. The moment the 737 charged the runway, engines blaring and lost contact with the ground gave me pins and needles, starting at my toes and working their way upwards as the ground dropped away below us. The upward ascent seemed to take ages, but the thrill of the moment was tempered by the annoyance of constantly having to re-adjust my inner ear pressure. When we finally leveled out and the plane stopped shuddering we were above the clouds and the journey became more relaxing, you could almost forget you weren't still parked on the airport runway, if not for the constant hum of the engines and roar of wind outside the cabin. Touch-down was blessedly uneventful and I managed to get myself from the airport to the shopping district with all haste. ten hours later I've collapsed, with sore feet and muzzy head. More later about the winding alleyways and interesting oppertunities to spend money that melbourne offers. Yes, I was very camera happy.

-- H in Oz