A hectic week but the hour had finally arrived ... Friday evening at last and we were at Terminal 1, Gate 79 waiting for our flight.

A great day at work to finish the week and celebrate 60 with a little touch of The Great Wall with my very own birthday cake extravaganza created by Julie-Anne. A pizza lunch with the staff, a few last minute jobs and at 4.10 pm with lights flashing - I was "outa there"..... and it may be hard to believe, but I was "outa there....with narry a backwards glance".

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Mac was slaving away doing all things domestic. I roared up the driveway to the echoing sound of the lawn mower roaring in the backyard....cutting it a bit fine I'd say. But in reality we had plenty of time... we even got to fit in a sleepy Skype call with Mindy (2 am in the morning for her) and a relaxing "sup" of red with Aunty Gail and Paul.

A quick farewell to Sparkie and taxi driver Michael was on hand to get us to the airport in plenty of time to catch up with Anthony.

All good so far, but of course Mac was singled out for the super dooper x-ray security check...he passed and I didn't try and take a photo this trip so we were through the security check without incident.

Have to say I had repacked my hand luggage three times since leaving home and I still couldn't find anything! But I did manage to add a few extra bits to Mac's bag. We really only had what seemed like five minutes in the coffee lounge before our flight was called...ready for our departure at 12.55 am. Looking forward to a movie, a big snooze, breakfast in Hong Kong and lunch in Beijing.

Thanks to all  family and friends for the messages and best wishes... and yep, you can be sure we will be enjoying the adventure.