Leaving Texas

I love it here, the people here are so effortlessly friendly. At TSA the guy smiles broadly at the man in front of me and says, "well sir you are dressed mighty fine, where are you going dressed like that.". And to the next couple he inquiry's of their destination, Hawaii. They've saved up for this trip.

I get to my plane and struggle to get my bag in the overhead. Gentleman behind me says "why don't you put it back up there and I'll give it a good push". Now I have traveled pregnant with no help from strangers so this type of hospitality is always a little startling.

I sit next to a group of giddy missionarys going to Bogata, Colombia. Blond lady next to me has managed to strap a king size pillow to her backpack! Flight attendant chastises her sweetly by saying, "Honey how did you get past me with all that, you can't sit there with that pile on your lap", she then helps the lady dismantle and stow. I grin watching this unfold, note her Ugg boots and ask how the weather is in Bogata, 60's she replies. I amuse myself envisioning this pretty lady in Bogata with her fancy boots and king size pillow but she's a missionary so I don't mock.

For the entire flight I close my eyes, what a simple pleasure. Those kids had me on the edge of my seat on the trip in. If I closed my eyes for a second Charlotte would scream WAKE UP MAMA!

Finally in Dallas, about to board flight to Narito, Japan. I must be feeling better because I inhaled a giant egg, bacon, potato and avocado burrito! Not to sound melodramatic but I appreciate a good "last" meal before leaving for Asia.

Going dark till I reach Japan.