Travels with Em - "We Arrive"

We arrived at Heathrow Airport in London safely, but not quite uneventfully. With the landing gear lowered and just about to touch down, the pilot suddenly gave a thrust to the engines and we were again ascending at an acute angle. A minute later, with everything under control, the pilot calmly explained that the plane in front of us, on the runway, failed to negotiate the turn off the landing path. Our pilot had to abort the landing.

It was all done so smoothly, that I am sure many did not immediately realize there had even been a problem. I made sure the flight attendant would convey my respects for the pilot's expertise and handling of the plane. I can remember DH's words when there was a discussion about an airline pilot's pay, "I don't ever want my pilot worrying about the cost of his child's shoes while he is flying."

Travels with Em - Days 1&2

When you travel towards the rising sun, you lose time, so we had two days in one without much sleep. Em has been SO excited. She manifests her excitement by talking, talking, talking.

We flew Air Canada to Toronto, were delayed by a heavy thunderstorm, and finally made our way on to London Heathrow Airport. It was a good trip, the first time I have flown this airline. I am sure they have tightened our belts to help keep profits up and not have to raise prices too much. Fortunately, both our bags were under 50 pounds and we did not have to pay the surcharge, an extra $25-50. We each had only one bag and a backpack which saved the 2nd checked bag fee. I had ordered lactose-free meals, which turned out to be VILE. I will try to change to regular meals and take my chances.

There was nothing to eat, not even a snack or peanuts, on the Austin / Toronto leg of the trip, so we arrived in Toronto very hungry. After clearing immigration (even though we were only staying a couple of hours), we found our gate and eventually found the agent who wandered over from one of the airport shops.
"Yes," he told us, "you have time to eat because your departure has been delayed."
It had been 8 hours since our last meal and Em likes to graze every 2 hours.The late hour did not offer much choice other than junk food, which would have delighted Em but I refused. We finally found a small place, ordered some chicken strips, and I positioned myself in a spot where our departure gate was visible. Just as the meal was delivered, I saw everyone who had been waiting at our gate, get up, and head down the hallway. The agent was pushing someone's wheelchair and we were still trying to calm our rumbling stomachs.

To be continued.......