Welcome to Orlando, Home of the Fanny Pack

Maureen is running late, so I'm at the airport, awaiting her arrival. A few observations:

1) I think over 50% of the world's child population is at this airport. There are happy kids, screaming kids, kids streaking across the airport...

2) These parents look like they need a nap or a Xanax.

3) Asian tourists will take their picture with ANYTHING. Not being mean or racist, but while the German tour group is taking pictures by the gate, plane in the background, the Asian tourists are taking pictures in front of the Disney Store, in the food court, and in front of the arrivals/departure screens.

4) Power outlets are very well-hidden in this airport. I found one behind a potted plant, attached to a random pillar. When I left the outlet, there was a race to take my spot.

5) You can't fit into a bathroom stall with luggage. Maybe someone who is a size 2 can manage, but the average woman would find it near impossible.

6) Fanny packs are everywhere. EVERYWHERE. Leave them at the parks, people!

Off to Orlando!

I'm taking a road trip with Maureen! She's moving some stuff and her dog, Cooper, back to Sterling Heights while she studies in France for a semester. Lucky. So I'm off to meet Maureen in Orlando, where we will play in the sun for 2 days then drive back to Michigan. We're taking our time driving back and stopping to see some fun and off-the-wall sites. Of course, I hurt myself prior to the trip. On Saturday, I went for a great run. 3.5 miles! My left foot hurt a bit later that day, worse on Sunday, and couldn't bear any weight on Monday. I went to urgent care, where it was discovered that I have a stress fracture on the side of my foot. I was put in a walking boot for 3-4 weeks, and no running for just as long. The foot has to be elevated, iced, all that fun stuff. At least I have pain pills, right? So far, the traveling is going alright. I took the Michigan Flyer for the first time to get from East Landing to Detroit. For $30, I was bussed in a deluxe coach with power outlets, free wi-to and surprisingly comfy seats to nap in. I don't know why I haven't taken this sooner; it was awesome! The Flyer dropped me off right in front of the North Terminal where I went through security. When I travel, I bring along th C-PAP machine to sleep. Since its a medical device, I don't check it and, thankfully, it doesn't count towards a "carry on" either. I had to dismantle the machine (not hard), had it tested, then the boot was noticed. I was offered a wheelchair to my gate- which was 2 gates over from Security. No thanks. I boarded the plane early though, so I could take my time hobbling down the aisle. I got booted from my pre-purchased aisle seat because of the boot. Apparently you have to be boot-free to be in the exit row. I was seated next to a VERY talkative lady who wouldn't stop talking about all of the travel vouchers she received from Spirit Air. While nice for her, I didn't care- I was up since 4am and I was tired. The flight crew was great and the male attendant, John, was funny as hell. He made all of the kids feel special on the flight, had me laughing for most of the trip, and was just pleasant. And, he got me a refund for my pre-purchased seat! Woo! Almost time to fly off...! Fr