Saturday, Day 22: Homeward Bound

After saying goodbye to our kind hosts, we headed south to DC. Only a few missed turns, and we arrived at Gene and Liz’s just after noon.

Dropping off the borrowed playpen and carseat, we then returned the van.
Operational miscue: Should have dropped off the passengers and luggage before going to Budget. Thanks to good friends, we hauled all the luggage to the terminal and dominated the check in area for half an hour.

Eating a quick meal at TGIF, amidst the busyness of the airport – and that of Zane. He is getting tired. BTW, glad that “blowout” diaper happened here and not in the air.

Rushing through security, then waiting for a delayed plane. Only a few minutes late, though.

Seat 15B: Thirty minutes of holding a tired, sleepy, over-stimulated, screaming toddler. Sorry about that, ma’am, I know you don’t like this, but neither do I and frankly, I don’t have many options here…

…Ah, the last row of the plane is empty. Zane fell asleep in my arms back there. Until someone let the nearby restroom door slam. Oh, look. He can be even louder when he is startled awake. Another thirty minutes. At least the attendant was understanding. Even asked is I needed anything. Finally eh went to sleep again, and didn’t arise until after touchdown.

Eating purchased sandwiches in DFW airport. Sitting on the floor. Happy baby. Not much talk. Weary, all. So good to have had this incredible trip. So glad to be going home.

Hit the ground right on time at 7:22 p.m. Well done, American! Our neighbor Mike was awaiting us at the airport at the appointed time. Grateful for his help in getting this crew home. Good to see ol’ Rojo, our Suburban. Nice to drive through the city towards our neighborhood.

The setting sun reminds me of how lovely Colorado springtime evenings are. The lawn, green and freshly mowed, looks great. The house is still intact. We only lost one pet, a parakeet who is now flying free – or in birdie heaven. The dog is waitig for us. The neighbor children are out playing. Dear Tony comes over, and expresses his joy at seeing us home (our children are fortunate to have him as a surrogate grandparent).

In a matter of only a few minutes the truck is unloaded, the re-entry is well underway.

So very glad we made this trip. So good to be home.