The day has finally arrived ......
  
After a hectic final week of packing and farewells the day has finally arrived for us to begin our much anticipated overseas trip. Kylie, Charlotte and Bailey arrived to pick us up then waited patiently while I placed the last remaining necessities into my suitcase before loading the luggage into Ky's car and heading off to the Canberra Railway Station. We always appreciate Ky and Carl's help in transporting us to and from home when we embark on our travels. 

 
The train from Sydney was running a little late so that gave us extra time to savour more hugs and kisses from Charlotte and Bailey before boarding the train. We felt mixed emotions as the train pulled away from the platform - we were excited to finally be on our way but suddenly 8½ weeks seemed a very long time to be away from home and family.

 
To ensure we remember Charlotte and Bailey everyday they have entrusted us with two of their much loved furry friends "Hoppy" and "Peter Rabbit" who will accompany us on our travels and hopefully blog their adventures to C & B along the way . Sally also has two furry friends to keep her company courtesy of her grandchildren - so our travel group has grown and now comprises seven.  (Pity our new recruits can't help to carry the luggage!)

 
The train ride to Sydney was pleasant and relaxing and gave us all time to take a deep breath and think about the trip ahead and not about the frustrations of the past few weeks when delayed Russian Visas and travel documents had us tearing our hair out.  

 
It was not long before we arrived into Sydney Central Station. Manoeuvring our suitcases and hand luggage through Central station would be good practice for our train journey through Scandinavia. Sydney Central did not disappoint - we arrived at peak hour so our skills were tested to the max in making our way to Sydney International Airport.

 
After alighting from the train at the airport we made our way to the new Rydges Hotel just in time to freshen up and meet Ann and Geoff who joined us at the hotel for dinner. It was great catching-up with them and also having family to share our farewell dinner with.