I have to admit when I woke up yesterday I was dreading the seven flights we had lined up. I was exhausted, pretty miserable, and under the impression that taking seven flights in a single day was physically impossible. Things looked bad early, but when we landed in St. Louis, we were greeted by a FareCompare angel named Mary. She flew out from Dallas just to meet us, bringing real food for lunch, some fresh clothes, and delicious Ghiradelli chocolate (you can make that check payable to “cash,” Ghiradelli). Mary’s visit really brightened things up as I headed out on the remaining flights. It turns out if all seven flights are only about an hour each, so, it’s not really that bad. I can’t believe I just said that. Then, things took a turn for the worse….

We ran into some baggage issues on the St. Louis to Chicago to Detroit leg of the journey. We’ve been pushing the carry-on rule all along (more on this later), and it finally caught up with us.

The Southwest flight was packed, and I was the last to board. There was no space for my carry-ons (carries-on?), so they made me check them. Actually, had I been willing to take a middle seat, I could have held onto one of the bags, but there was no way that was happening. I just can’t do it at this point.

Giving up the bags led to some serious fun at the Detroit baggage claim, exposure to the bitter Detroit winter, a long shuttle ride, and an unnecessary trip through security. All things that I love.

It ended up OK, though, because I got to fly first class on the final flight of the day (Detroit to Nashville). I was a little grumpy, because I thought the flight was only going to be 37 minutes long, but I had not accounted for the time change. Actually, I’m still not convinced that Nashville is in the Central time zone, but the added hour of having a foot rest, more room, great service, and plenty of space for all of my bags was much appreciated.

Day 4 has not started off well, but I am trying to keep it together. Oh, and I am about ready to burn this flipping Santa suit, but that’s a story for another time.

Stay Grumpy! Pray for Snow.

–GS

Grumpy Scale: 2 (too tired to be too grumpy)

What’s on Grumpy Santa’s iTunes? Enya - Yeah, that’s right. I’m listening to Enya. What?! Her dulcet semi-Celtic tones are the only thing keeping me sane right now!