somewhere over the atlantic
sat 6-aug-05

I am on the way home. I think we have about 2 more plane hours.

This morning was nice and sunny - which is good - since unlike my fellow travelers - I do not have a limo. I have feet and a bus.

The US could learn from the Dutch bus system. They have what I call "bus paths". These are special two land roads just for busses. Not to be confused with bus lanes. They are completely separate from the regular traffic lanes. Sometimes they go along side the highway, sometimes along side the train tracks and sometimes they take off across the countryside all by them selves. And there are big jointed red busses that go on these bus paths.

Regular buses collect folk from there homes and offices and take them to really snazzy bus stops where you get the Red Bus. The Red Buses seem to go to every train station. Anyhow, I got to the airport much cheaper, quicker and easier than I would have if I had gone by train. These red buses seem to be very reliable.

Then the waiting began. First I waited to check in. Next I waited over 30 minutes for Dutch "Passport Control". You know you are in for a long wait when they have a clown to distract you while you wait. Then I waited for Dutch "Security". Same deal as US security. After that, I waited in a mysterious line at the gate area. More "security". Another guy asked "Did you pack your own bags?" "Of course you fool, do you know how hard it is to get a ladies maid these days?" And, yet another trip down security check lane. My suitcases must be radio active by now!

Then I waited for flight time. I think the plane left on time. As soon as we got off the ground they fed us dinner or lunch or breakfast. I did email, snoozed, listened to the iPod.

Then - I had a serious case of little old lady. I got my passport out to fill out the customs forms. I put the passport on my lap. It slides off and disappears down between the seats. BUT, I don't see this happen. As far as I am concerned my passport is LOST. Well, a nice flight attendant comes and takes the seat apart. "In the event of a water landing your seat cushion can be used as a floatation device". And there it is. The escaped passport. That adventure caused just enough of an adrenalin rush to get me out of my serious case of mid-flight funk. But, I don't recommend trying it.

The flight is starting to get bumpy - could that mean we are nearing our destination? Philadelphia.