Destination: Czech Republic Part 1

Customer service at US Airways LAX checkin counter is horrible. They ignore people who are asking for help. I decided to check a bag because that was the only way to get someone to come over to me. At security checkpoint, I was picked to go through body scanner. (I never know what kind of facial expression to have in that moment of going through airport security..supposed to play it cool, friendly, but not too much…do I crack a half smile? Do I make eye contact with the guards?) Anyway, I stood there with my arms above my head, self conscious about the stance. Exposing my underarms. My carry-on bag had to get “tested” by TSA. It passed. Our pilot got into an accident on the way to airport, they had to get a replacement pilot. Estimated time 45 mins delay. They were about right. Picked up lost time in the air, but wait. Captain calls overhead, “We are in a holding pattern because the airport is closed. Air force one with the VP is arriving.” Estimated time 30 mins delay. Only ended up being 15 though. 

Arrived in Philly. In the domestic terminal. Had to walk with my shoe untied, two bags and a roll of posters to terminal A, to catch my flight to Germany. Waited 3 hours. Ate some questionable, overpriced sushi, but sort of made up for it with $8 organic, dark chocolate covered pretzels. Hopped on a conference call, charged my iPad, and waited to board. Walked onto a sweaty, smelling airplane. Every seat is full. Really loathe flying coach on this airline. (If flying commercial coach isn’t enough motivation to make lots of money, not sure what is.) Plane started pulling out of gate, on time, then suddenly we stopped. Captain calls overhead, “Our engines seemed to have died. A mechanic is on the way.” 

Oh, good.