My brother, Danny, retired after 20 years of service in the USAF. He was stationed in Las Vegas. I had three little kiddos and Brett really didn't have many days to spare so I wasn't planning to attend. That was, until he called and asked me if I could sing The National Anthem at the ceremony. Of course, I had to make plans and get my booty there. That was quite an honor. It was not easy though. I hate to fly, especially alone. And I really hate leaving Brett and my babies. I made sure the house was perfect to help Brett out during my absence and then pretty much cried for a couple/few days. I had my friends, Laurie & Nick, take me to the airport because I wasn't about to have one of those sobbing goodbyes at the terminal with Brett & the kids. Huge storm in B'ham airport so I had a tiny drink at the bar to calm my nerves. Descent light to New Orleans then a horrible flight dodging storms to Vegas. I had prayed that God would seat me next to someone that needed me. Low and behold, in NO, two cute kids, flying alone, sat smack next to me. And they were chatters. We talked the entire bumpy ride. I was so grateful.
Once in Vegas, I relaxed a tad. That is until my "female" pain got horrendous. I texted David at 5am to go get me some Midol. It was a jam-packed trip but loads of fun. David & I even drug mom and dad out of bed to go tour the strip. And, we found a Favoli's! So not as good as I remembered. Bummer.
The flight back was much better. David, usually a big jerk to me, a loving jerk but a jerk nonetheless, was on both flights with me. We made it back safe and sound and I must say that Brett did a bang-up job with the kids while I was gone.
(June 2010)