Hi Bell Parents and Friends,

We started our 2005 Handbell tour to London in the Chapel at Tower Hill Church. After a few words of instruction from Judy Werner, our new pastor, Steve Beard, said a word of prayer and sent us on our way.

We loaded the bells and luggage in several bell parents' cars, and we were off to Newark Liberty International Airport. Our Travel Coordinator, Becky Albrecht, met us at the airport and helped us through the many phases of getting on board for our flight. Thank you, Becky, for all you do!

After checking our luggage and bells, we went through security and were escorted to a waiting room where we were given soft drinks and potato chips. Then we went to our gate to board our flight. While waiting at the gate, we were surprised to see Heather's father, Wayne, who was returning from a business trip. It was great to see you, Wayne!

We then boarded our plane. It was a 777 aircraft seating 3-3-3. Dinner was Chicken Marsala or Lasagne. Movies were "Hitch", "The Ring 2", "Be Cool", or "Curley Sue". After that we tried to sleep.

More later. We are at a church home stay host who graciously let us use their e-mail. Thank you, David and Kay!

I'll send Day 2 report tomorrow.

Good Night,

George