"Mom, he's on my side of the plane!"

This airplane to Hawaii seems more like the wood paneled station wagons of my youth, instead of featherless metal birds defying the laws of gravity, miserable families are packed in taking up several rows and passing video games, snacks and sharply worded comments across seats and aisles.  The difference is that DINKS (Dual Income and No Kids) like Rusty and myself wouldn't have been subjected to the family dysfunctions of these families during the station wagon halcyon days.

Knowing we will most certainly share the next few weeks trapped on an island does not put me in a particularly restful state.  Serving the state of California as a steward of the children's education, you would think I have more patience for kids, but I venture to guess gynecologists aren't interested in seeing Va Jay Jay's in their time off, so it is with me, No Kids, and No Va Jay Jays.

There are a few things of which I am certain: I am certain we over packed, preparing for almost every contingency, minus the possibility of encountering a blizzard.  I'm certain Rusty is very excited by this trip, as he normally hunkers down with a good book and speaks to no one.  It's so great to see him reach his seven-year-old excited about Christmas morning inner child.  I want to feel that but just feel tired and stressed.  I'm also certain the fun tax will be high...Ch-Ching $$$ but well worth it.

Who's the Math Master now!  Those of you who know me, know that math may not exactly be my forte.  Adding in dates and times?  Well, that's a triumvirate of terror for me (I'm so terrified of dates and times, I show up to everything 45 minutes early as part of my over compensation!)  The airline hosted a little contest.  We all had to guess the time half way to Hawaii, after scribbling down all the figures and cyphering, whose name should they call over the loudspeaker? "Walt Lewis in seat 21C".  My Prize, a full bottle of Redtree Cab. Sav., with fancy screw top.  Bottle of red wine?  $10.99  Bragging rights for a math contest? Priceless.

This airplane has been chasing the sun as it sets in the west and is slowly losing the race.  The sun is disappearing over the the horizon.  The sky boasts red, pink, gold, and a deep blue only possible at thirty thousand feet.  I'm ready to see this same sunset on the beaches of Hawaii.  Perhaps I had not realized how empty I am feeling, maybe a few beautiful sunsets and languid days on the beach will be the restorative so desperately needed.