Traveling with Kids is always fun. You never know quite what to expect – from the kids or the people around you.

Like the guy sitting in the isle seat next to Darling Husband and Darling Daughter on our flight from Bangkok to Hong Kong. As soon as he saw us approaching, he winced. Then, as we got ourselves settled, he called the Flight Attendant over and told her, “I need coffee! Lots of coffee. Just keep it coming continuously. Intravenously, if you can.” Then he thought for a moment and said, “And is there another seat I can move to. I can’t sit next to kids. I am going all the way to LA today, you know…”  

Hmm, is he saying his destination effects his attitude?? A few minutes later, he was moved.

I sure am glad the Kid Hating Coffee Addict is moving. Have a Pleasant Flight, sir! 

He was replaced by a Very Pleasant Woman who enjoyed every minute of Darling Daughter’s Antics.

Darling Son and I sat next to Congenial Sleepy English Man, who said nothing after the Initial Pleasantries.

The Long Flight from Hong Kong to San Francisco was very uneventful. We watched movies and slept – we had the middle 4 seats of the plane, so there was little or no interaction with other passengers.

I was pleasantly surprised by our reception in San Francisco, especially at the hotel. Perhaps it was because it was a pet friendly hotel – other guests were kind and pleasant, talked to our kids, made positive comments about their various antics. One couple even volunteered to babysit – twice!! Oh so different to other experiences on the same Itinerary.

When we got to the Airport for our final flight to Tampa, the United Check-in Representative was actually pleasant and helpful!! And didn’t charge us for our bags!!! Thanks for saving us $135, Amy!! It’s been many many years since we had a pleasant experience in a US Airport. Even the TSA officers tolerated Master Two’s Antics. And Miracle of Miracles! The gate agents were pleasant and helpful. AND they’ve reinstated the Family ‘Pre-Board’ that had disappeared for a number of years.

Whew! We’re on the home stretch. A direct flight is always an unexpected blessing!!

As I sat in my isle seat, waiting to find out who Mr or Mrs Window Seat would be, I looked up and saw a Handsome Guy with a big smile on his face. He walked up, and saw Timmy sitting next to me. His first words, addressing Timmy, were, “Oh cool!!! I get to sit next to you!!” Then he turned to me and said, “I was just visiting my nephew. He’s about the same age.” So, the three of us chatted a while, until Timmy and Mr Window Seat yawned and fell asleep. I watched ‘Mr Poppers Penguins’ for a while, then took a little nap myself. Feeling all warm and fuzzy that Timmy was seated next to the only person on the plane who was actually glad he was there…