How to end a great trip!

Sigh. Fly home day. What a terrific weekend! Great friends and family, Delicious meals and lovely wines. Yup, this is going to be a repeat. As fast as it went, I think it was the perfect amount of time. Nothing ever was tedious, or edgy or boring — to say the least.

Misty came to spend some time with me the last morning.

A light breakfast of strawberries and cheese was perfect. Even the family cat, Misty came to say goodbye. Such a lovely animal! She is the same age as my Softey. I was so happy to see Misty. I always miss my “kids” when I travel!

With the top down on her white Jaguar, Kim drove me to the airport. I had plenty of time before departure. There was a bar not too far from my gate so I treated myself to a Bloody Mary.

For those of you hesitant to fly, mostly because of physical limitations, let me talk for a minute about wheelchair service. It is about the last thing left where the airlines/airports do a great job. They do not offer pick up service at curbside — at least I have never seen it. You do need to ask at the counter and they do look up if you have requested the service when you made your reservations.

After that bit of inconvenience, it is clear sailing. One of the best parts of wheelchair service is not having to wait in line at TSA security. You are wheeled right up front in a special line and within a few minutes, you are done.

From there you might want to talk to your driver about what will happen at the gate. Sometimes they will let you stay in the chair if you want to be wheeled down the jetway to the plane. Sometimes you will need to vacate the chair and wait in the seating at the gate. They will do pretty much whatever you want them to do.

If you are left without the wheelchair, airlines allow early boarding for those with handicaps so you are not rushed. It does make a difference.

Arriving at your destination, most often the wheelchairs are right at the plane’s door on the jetway. They will take you to get your luggage and very often will take you out to your transportation.

There is no charge for this service, but tips are how they make their money. I usually tip $5 or more if there is baggage handling or they do a special service for me.

OK, That is your travel tip for today.

Back in Minneapolis, I took the shuttle to the parking area I booked through AmericInn. Believe me, they were the most reasonable. They were very prompt and within 30 minutes of landing, I was in my car heading home.

It only took 4 1/2 hours to get home. Sunday evening traffic was very light. Once again I came home thoroughly exhausted from a great time. This was my second trip to Phoenix and I am glad I got to revisit. This time the temperatures were very mild, spring had greened things up a lot. I like it much more this time!

So we move on to spring chores. This is Memorial weekend and there are plants that need to be purchased and planted! Hope you have a great holiday weekend!