Jam packed full flight with Paralympians from Italy, Germany, Scotland, Spain and of course Great Britain.

Even the head of the Paralympic Committee was lounging in first class. The airport was full of Olympians some still carrying their bouquets. Tired athletes, proudly bearing their country ‘s colours intermingled with Vancouver 2010 souvenirs, still on a high from their experiences. One fellow told me the games were wonderful but it was the friendliness of Canadians and the spirit of the games that they will never forget. That and the friendships they made….. Certainly were a lot of hugs going around!

You can imagine the pre boarding took a lot of time. They boarded the plane by teams (instead of rows) . Wheel chairs aside it was pretty chaotic for us regular people to get to our seats. I’m not complaining though… it was because of them that British Airways took off during the strike and also because of them that we had a truly unique experience with Paralympians up close and personal!! There were two guys that hopped up and down the isle to talk to friends. Each of them had one leg but their bodies were so powerful. The team doctor beside me grinned with pride sharing some of his experience with sports medicine. The Mom in me made me feel so proud of each of them. All of us know someone who struggles a handicap much less severe than some of these people yet then feel it is insurmountable. What a witness to the world. They were also so proud to come together in the home province of Terry Fox and Rick Hansen. Oh no… there go the gushy Canadian tears of pride again. Gotta love it!

Anyway, with the stomach churning turbulence, nasty food and an acute lack of sleep behind us we arrived safely at Heathrow then took the short trip to Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. Our bag showed up and our passports were stamped and we were in Europe. Then as we searched for our hotel we discovered we had to go back through security to get to it. Strange thing as you must pass through security to get your luggage…. Odd place for a hotel. After a little searching, a lot of walking and meeting some nice security people (and not so nice information booth lady) we checked in to the Schiphol Mercure Hotel. Nice little clean rooms with no windows which is ideal as it is dark and you get a good sleep.

This morning, as I write this, we have re entered Europe ( so to speak) and sit waiting for our trip to Milan. So far so good. Our Netherlands experience has so far consisted of this airport which included Schnitzel and a cold Heineken beer.

Hmmmm… not a bad start.