First Class Traveler

Spring is here and we are finally starting to consistently enjoy such beautiful weather. Every morning, Benji grabs his sippy cup of milk and stands at the back door, watching the birds and requesting to go outside. Every day, we try our best to get out in the yard, where he picks up sticks and leaves, chases the birds and squirrels, chases the ball, and stands on any flowers that might be in his way. Then he rattles the gate for access to the front yard, where we do all of the above, with the added bonus of a steep driveway and slope of yard to contend with. "No Fear Benji" starts a-running, and whoever is lucky enough to be watching after him starts a-chasing. And that is what springtime is all about, right?

We just recently returned from a wonderful journey to California. Just after my show ended, we hopped on a plane to San Diego, where Kevin had a short conference to attend. What a great opportunity to spend some family time together and enjoy a bit of luxury at a lovely resort! I was deeply worried about the lengthy cross-country flight. Benji is sweet, but he is busy and airplanes are just not big enough for a toddler. We were pleased to learn that due to Kevin's mileage status we were upgraded to First Class. Oh my! I have walked through First Class. I have watched the stewardesses close off the curtain to First Class so that coach travelers do not disturb them. I have seen them get food while I munch on crackers. Finally, I was IN First Class! Kevin is certain that all of the other passengers in First Class were less than pleased to learn of their new travel companion for the 5-hour flight. But Ben showed them. He was awesome. He wiggled and giggled and squealed and roamed up and down the aisles a bit, but he was truly awesome. He eventually fell asleep on the floor at our feet for over an hour, too. The gentleman across the aisle told me that Benjamin was a super traveler. I agree.

Once we arrived in San Diego and started off on our journey in the rental car, Benjamin couldn't stop chatting. Kevin thinks he was talking about how great it would be to be rich one day and always fly First Class. I think he was talking about how great it would be if his car seat at home faced the front instead of the back so he could actually see where he was going. Either way, he was entertaining - for that journey and the entire week. The resort was gorgeous, the food was delicious and Benjamin enjoyed a bubble bath in the huge bathtub every night. We entertained ourselves while Kevin worked by running up and down the halls, visiting the little stores, exploring the lovely gardens and overdosing on DVD episodes of Curious George that we brought from home. One night, Benji and I ordered room service and sat in matching bathrobes while we ate dinner on the rug in front of the television. Once Kevin was done with the conference, we stretched our wings a bit and visited the zoo and saw the beautiful beaches. We finished our trip by heading to Los Angeles to stay with friends. Benji enjoyed playtime with their very lovable dog Moose and figured out how to throw the ball forward in order for Moose to play fetch with him. We went to a Dodgers game and stuffed ourselves with the infamous Dodger Dogs. It was a tad bit cold, but I really shouldn't complain. We had a wonderful week and I'm certain Benjamin did, too. Flying home was just as easy, despite being sent back to Economy Plus seating. Benji even sat on the lap of the lady next to us so that he could look at all of the airplanes when we landed. (He makes friends with freedom and uncertainty, what can I say?) I spent so much energy worrying about how I was going to handle Benjamin on the plane and in the hotel that I almost missed the vacation. I was fully prepared for a screaming child, embarrassing looks, and tears (my own, not Ben's). I probably need to relax a bit. Maybe Benjamin can teach me a thing or two about traveling with style and with grace. He's already shown me that he is ready for First Class! And for the next vacation? Grandma's house......