Focusing On the Prize--Despite Airport Anxiety

Early tomorrow morning we leave to see our family in Portland, Oregon.  Here's Zoe and our daughter on a recent vacation in Michigan ( included some long airport delays).  Last night, this not-quite-two-year-old exclaimed, "Granma," several times on the phone.  Overwhelmed!  Next, her 5-year old brother outlined projects we'd have together during our two-week visit.  I continue to be amazed about having three grandchildren, two of them now talking.

Distractions from impending airport trauma were undermined by today's post at Time Goes By.  Under the spot-on title, Elders and the Unfriendly Skies, Ronni Bennett says it all--not just for us slower-moving people but tall folks, child-carrying families.  Please go there, read it, then write something on your own blog about the way once pleasurable travel has become a drag.  Or should we select a dates on which bloggers would simultaneously post.  My spouse threatens to go barefoot to Security; photo will document the event.

Perhaps a Month of Passenger Indignities would get attention from the TSA, airport personnel, and, let's see, there is another group.  Oh, yes, the United States Congress.  Do you think?  Can't improve health care, can't stop an endless, illegal war--maybe this would be more within their limited abilities.         

Last week the latest sweater for nearby Roxie received its final touch. Maxine, knit advisor at Knitty City, suggested "Flower Power," from Nicky Epstein's recent book of knit flowers (link to review).  Just whenI think I have enough books!   For those who do not knit, see it as a high art, I point out that input from others often improves the work.  I asked Roxie's mother, a graphic artist who does not knit, "Flower on the left or right side?"  Her reply, "How about in the middle?" 

Did I mention there is still a stamped envelope in my baggage so I can reclaim knitting needles confiscated by TSA?   Has not happened in a few years,  but you never...

Update:  When we went to the deli for food to take onto the plane, we ran into Marie Runyon, 92 year old activist from the Granny Peace Brigade.  She was dressed up to go to dinner at a place she says has, "...great Margaritas!"  Legally blind, she travels around the neighborhood with ease.  Next time I'll ask her what it's like for her in airports, dealing with TSA.  You don't mess with Marie!

[Several posts written before departure will appear while a little red hen travels...including one from momentarily-retired blogger, Xtreme English.]

                      

Comments

[marianne]

How OLD is Roxy now? She is such a beautiful little girl. I can see the hot coal and the sparkling fire in her little face! SHE looks like a strong woman-in-the-making. Granma's girl. :) Have a wonderful trip. if you ever make it down to san Fran, let me know! xo

[Jennifer]

The sweater and recipient are beautiful! I can appreciate your anxiety about flying, and while I like to think I tend to be easy going (as in not annoyed by unintentional delays by less experienced or encumbered passengers) when I do travel, after reading the linked article, I'll try to make an effort to offer help when I can. I must admit I shy away from being helpful as past efforts have left me spurned rudely, and I don't wish to be condescending. Safe travels!

[Martha]

Howdy from Portland. Neil, Lindsay and I are here until early on the 6th! It's gorgeous here. Been looking at houses...

Best,
Martha