The last time I walked onto an aircraft via tarmack steps was in San Juan, Puerto Rico upon returning from the islands. This time, I’m departing Columbus, OH bound for Washington D.C. I must be the only passenger making a connection, seeing as though my bag is the sole piece of checked luggage. It’s rather comical to see my little red suitcase sitting all alone on the underbody conveyor. All the other unlucky souls are probably traveling for business or a short trip with their carry-on packages. But my bag and I are headed for an adventure. Makes me wonder if luggage chats to one another about their final destinations; their baggage tags cause for braggery. The gentleman across the aisle looks stuffy in his suit. I would never want to travel in anything but my jeans and sneakers.
At the Dulles airport I become hyper-aware of all the families traveling with screaming kids. Maybe because the last 21 months have programmed my ear to tune into such pleas or because I’m not too busy with my own wiggly toddler to notice. Either way, I relish in the fact that today that’s not me.
Nope. Today I am just Hayley again. Not responsible for anyone but myself. Free to spend my time dreaming, observing, doodling, and resting. I can’t honestly say that I miss Avery yet. Since her birth we have never spent even 24 hours apart from one another. I consider that a blessing. Yet somehow I think these next two weeks will vastly refresh my spirit, refocus my faith, and restore my passions.
Flight to Johannesburg, South Africa:
Delayed in Dulles. Board the plane an hour prior to departure. Two seater window all to myself. “Please take up your seats.” Nothing like an old man smacking his menthol phlegm in your ear. Amazing wingtip flex and engine wobble amidst the clouds. Looks as though the outer engine might just snap off. Taking a page from the husband’s travel log: rum, coke & Unisom. Fleeing the sun as it melts into the Atlantic. Full meal, full belly, fast asleep. Pit stop in Dakar for fuel and a sunrise. Also acquire a seat buddy - fortunately he’s quiet and smells nice. Another meal, another snooze, another sunset behind us. Arrive in the pitch black over a sea of amber stars. Closer to the ground I almost laugh out loud when the only thing I recognize is the glow of some golden arches. At least I know any craving for a BigMac won’t go unresolved. Flying for 17 hours over sea and land reminds me just how vast this world is. And how infinitely small I am.
After delays in both ports we finally arrive in Johannesburg nearly 2.5 hours late. I wait an additional hour for my checked luggage to appear. By now I’ve missed the last flight to Cape Town and am informed I will be spending the night in Joburg (as the locals call it). At this point I have no local currency, no cellphone, and I am alone. Fortunately everyone speaks english and the hotel room was provided compliments of my airline. A swanky place, I might add. Although the room is oddly missing a clock of any kind. I have to turn the t.v. to the weather channel just to know the time. Almost 11p. Better try and get some rest.
6 comments:
So glad the outer engine did not snap off!! Would have totally ruined your day (and mine!!).
Happy Travels! Looking forward to reading the next chapter.
Why are you in Joburg?
And so the adventure begins is right...looks like you are already experiencing the joys of traveling! At least your hotel room looks fabulous! Can't wait to hear about the next step in your adventure.
So glad to hear you made it safely to South Africa. Looking forward to hearing more about your fun adventure!
Susan
Finally got to a computer to communicate. Glad you made it safely! Looks like hotel could use some of your art work!!! Hope you have a great adventure, make some lasting friendships and memories to last a lifetime. I am sure as the time passes you will find your heart missing Avery, like crazy. The break is great for both of you. I know she is in great hands with Oma and Opa. Enjoy the rest of your journey and have a safe trip home.
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