DXB-AMS-LAX-FAT

25 Nov. We left DXB @ 1:45am, our new time is now 6:30 am and we have passed three time zones already.  I finally found a plug so I can charge my netbook here @ AMS. Our first flight was uneventful.  We were very surprised at the lack of security at DXB.  We didn’t have to remove our shoes or pull out any liquids for inspection, etc.  However, the weight of our carryon bags was even checked and we had to readjust locations for some things.  We had wine and a snack when we got on our first flight, then they woke us (seemed I barely dozed off!) 1.5 hours before arrival to serve a somewhat questionable breakfast.  They said it was an omelet…one should be thankful to get anything of course!  We also had a sealed-in-plastic blanket and a small pillow, so we were treated well, no complaints.  There was even enough room to almost stretch my legs completely out in front of me.  Bring on the next flight!!!

Our flight left AMS on time, more security here but still nothing like the USA, no shoes off and no liquid inspection, but we were body scanned and patted down, I actually appreciate the efforts!  One at least has a small feeling of safety after this is done.  The flight was uneventful and we were lulled to sleep more than once despite the daylight all the way.  I took photos of Greenland, pretty stark out there, and the ocean of iceberg photos is a stark contrast to the miles of desert we just left.  It is  an amazingly diverse world HE created for us!  KLM is a great airline to fly, they gave us a lot of food and most (despite the breakfast) was quite good.  They even came around with a snack of ice cream! 

Arrival to LAX was also uneventful, I am not as tired as I thought I would be.  I did sleep a few times on this last long flight.  Off the plane, passed immigration, collected luggage (so happy it arrived!), then through customs, recheck our bag 20 feet from customs, outside to the shuttle taking us from International to domestic Terminal 4, check in, pass strict security, eat at Chili’s, on the bus to the remote terminal serving Fresno, and waited about 10-15 minutes to board and on our way HOME!  We were thrilled that our luggage arrived and our sweet neighbor Cheryl was there to pick us up and bring us home.  She is so smart she even brought our house key… since I can’t immediately recall where I left it.  It IS great to be home.  First thing was a shower, then laundry was started immediately and we attempted to stay up and moving to be “back in sync” with local time.  However, I faded sometime after the 3rd NCIS on Demand then John woke me to go to bed.  Oh my, my OWN bed felt SO DARN GOOD!  Like slipping on a comfy body glove or the like.  It was a great trip, lots of memories.  I took 3,017 photos that are now downloaded on my PC as well!