Farewell to Lilly

Lilly & Christine, Terminal 3

Departure Day: Thursday, 16th July 2009, 2100 hrs:

Happy and relaxed after two woppingly long walks, Lilly hops into the back of the car, and heads off to the airport - with Martin, Sherry & Christine for company - to check in for her Singapore Airlines flight to New York City, and a new life as a much-loved pet!

Angela & Lilly at check-in

It wasn't hard for passenger Angela to find us; we were the ones with a dog crate covered in love messages - and of course a fine looking dog. Walking happily on leash with Christine, tail wagging high, we headed to the priority check-in counter (no-one there, we got first class service thanks to Angela's "gold" travel card), up on the scales to discover dog-in-crate weighed 29 Kgs, then round the corner to the Excess Baggage Charge desk. Singapore Airlines now charges on a "per piece" concept so lovely Lilly's fare was an affordable S$ 300 - Bow Wow Economy Class!

Sherry, Lilly & Christine

My calm exterior cracked a little when Lilly got anxious and "asked" to be let out of the crate, but taking deep breaths I ignored her, managing to say a grateful thanks to Angela for being such a hero as she headed off to the departure lounge, with all Lilly's paperwork in hand. Christine finally dissolved when Lilly was wheeled away, but through tears said she knew this was a great chance for Lilly. I believe so too.

Courtesy of Carol & Paul, Lilly's inflight entertainment was a delicious marrow bone that will last the whole journey. Jacqueline gifted Lilly with her special St. Christopher's charm to keep her safe on the journey, and I gave up a sweaty old t-shirt so she could sniff and daydream about our walks on the beach. Home then for a long anxious wait until we hear of Lilly's safe arrival.

The night before : Lilly's Champagne Farewell Party with the PJs

"What's going on 'ere?" an inquisitive and indignant Lilly asks, "That's my bedroom wall you're writing on!"

Tim and Jacqueline arrive for Lilly's farewell the night before departure with the customary bottle of fine Champers to celebrate Lilly's voyage to America, and after numerous hugs and I-love-yous with the golden girl Lilly, they write a special "bon voyage" message on Lilly's crate.