Arrival

The earth says hello...

This is a grainy ipod photo of the earth waking up as we approached Edinburgh. I arrived at 7:15 or so this morning. It was a smooth flight and I was lucky to be the only one sitting in my row. The route from XNA (Fayetteville) to Chicago to Edinburgh is the route to go. Just perfect. I have never had such a smooth and peaceful journey and so fast too! My first flight was delayed by 30 minutes but once in the air we made good time and it took us just over an hour to reach Chicago. O'Hare airport is a dream compared to Newark New Jersey (and even though this was only my second visit there) I found my way to my gate and to some vegetarian food with ease. The art in the airport was lovely as well.

The flight from Chicago to Edinburgh also made up time in the air and I think the journey was just over 7 hours. I spent about 8 hours total in the sky and had an easy 3 hour layover in Chicago. My shortest journey yet. Kismet all the way.

I beat Stewart to the airport as my flight was so fast and immigration was a breeze thanks to a partially empty flight and my new visa. My immigration man was humming songs under his breath and asked me how I liked Edinburgh. I told him I loved it and he said "You really must as you are moving here! Welcome and enjoy!" Paying a couple of grand to UK border patrol for the slip of paper in the passport really has it's privileges.

After meeting up with Stewart and taking a taxi back to the flat, we unpacked the art I brought along with me. The modern immigrant brings her art collection with her don't you know.

Later there was a pop in to the Tourmalet for a pint and some curry from Haqs. It's good to be home.