In DC

We are in DC. Our landlady rolled out of bed at the early hour and drove us to the airport in plenty of time. We were a bit mystified when we got to the gate area as there was no sign of our airline going to Detroit even though it was stated on the general board. Some people were already in the chairs so we sat too. Even at the recommended boarding time no workers were on the scene. Finally the flight crew came and that seemed like a good sign even though they also just ended up standing around. Someone finally came, but even then no signs turned on and we were actually boarded by being marked by hand on a chart.  It was late, but we still had enough time for the layover to find our next plane. I mean, “How big can the Detroit airport be?”

Then before we left the ground, the pilot announced that we would have to wait because they needed to de-ice the plane. It still seemed that time would all work out because we would have 45 minutes to make the connection.

After landing we were taxing around the building when the plane stopped rather abruptly. In a bit another plane could be seen going in front of us. Do those pilots just keep an eye out for others as they move around on the ground? Then we got to the gate and the pilot announced that there were emergency vehicles in the way. He would call the tower for an alternate gate. That took a little bit more time. He also commented as he started to move that emergency vehicles looked as if they were also leaving, but we kept moving. At the new gate we had to wait for the ground crew to get in place to do all of that work that they do.

My bag had been plane sided so I waited for that while Leroy went out to look for the next plane. Course it was about as far from this spot as you could be and still be in the airport. We were in Terminal C6 and we needed to get to A78. We started following signs and moving at the great Bradway walk speed with a little extra push. When we were about half way there I noticed that there is a tram in this airport. We had enough time to use the bathroom before we flopped into seats in the waiting area. “When we come back, I am going to figure out how and where to catch that tram,” I panted.

On the return trip we only have about 30 min. in the schedule. It seems like a miss if we are delayed on the first flight. We leave later and get back earlier. We are counting on being early enough that I can go to work. And then we are going to use the city buses to get to our house. Hopefully they abide by their schedules.

Lexi was quite excited to see us when we picked her up after school. We knew to bring our picture ID’s which they copied. Lexi went with us to pick up two year old Natalie who has not seen us in person since last Christmas. As it turned out Natalie saw me first and she just produced a bit grin. That webcam is a great invention for helping memory. As we were leaving, after once again have the ID’s copied, Natalie went into my arms, not eagerly or closely, but comfortably.

Paula