Yep, we're here and we made it in one piece! I am happy to report that everything went relatively smoothly, and I didn't even resort to drugging the kids! Getting through security was the biggest hassle. Going through the routine of unloading the stroller, removing 2 sets of shoes, and getting everything back in order again made me feel like I was being timed in some sort of relay race. Luckily, the lady standing watch where you reclaim all of your belongings was more than patient with me. She even found a moment to make small talk with me while I repacked the stroller. I originally wasn't going to take the stroller, but I am so glad I did. I was able to keep up with my munchkins and all our belongings while maintaining use of both hands! Thanks for helping to sway my decision Chanelle! Tyler actually enjoyed being able to make "a home" in the back of the stroller and I wish I had thought to take a picture of him curled up with all his little toys. I was just too busy trying to make sure I was in the right place at the right time to bust out the camera. I'm sure Tyler will be more than happy to re-create the moment for me on our trip back home.
Other than some super strong turbulance, the length of time we had to spend on board (5 hours straight through!), and a scare given by one of the flight attendants, our time on the plane was a positive experience. The flight was packed, and we ended up with the VERY last row of seats on the plane. The upside to this was that we were right by the bathrooms, and we got the only 2-seater row on the entire plane all to ourselves! So luckily I didn't have to stress about how my children might be bothering the person sharing a row with us. Allison started out the flight with a nap while Tyler colored for close to an hour. After that, on board activities included snacks, coloring (just for the record, "Color Wonder" is the only way to go!), reading books, stickers (and sticker peeling in Allison's case), and toys.
Upon Tyler's first request to go potty, I sighed and ran through my list of options.
Option #1. Leave Allison in the seat while I quickly run Tyler to the bathroom. Likely result of this choice: Even though I could pull this one off in 2 minutes flat, Allison would have enough time to climb down out of her seat, mosey up the aisle making friends along the way, and end up sneaking past the flight attendants as she makes her way into the flight deck to hang with the pilot.
Option #2. Leave Allison BUCKLED in the seat while I very quickly run Tyler to the bathroom. Likely result of this choice: Upon returning from the bathroom, I have an anrgy mob of passengers - who were once sleeping - coming after me and my screaming kid.
Option #3. See if Tyler can hold it for only 3 more hours. Likely result of this choice: Once I suggest that he hold it, he starts crying and then goes all over the seat 30 seconds later...now I have a whole new set of problems on my hands. Option #4. Take BOTH kids with me while Tyler uses the bathroom. Likely result of this choice: Anyone who sees me head into the microscopic bathroom with 2 kids wishes they could be a fly on the wall to see how this will pan out. Once I lock the door, I will have to turn around 3 times in order to find the spot that's "just right" to hold Allison while being most careful not to bump into Tyler who is already getting his business done. Once his pants are back up, we have to wash hands, so I stand Allison on the toilet lid while using my hip to hold her in place. I have to pump the water every other second just to get enough water to wash away the suds. I feel the urge to go also, but decide I can hold it a bit longer since there is NO WAY I even have enough room to sit down! I know the suspense is killing you, so I went with option 4! Shortly after, I was able to return to the bathroom with only one child, thanks to two sweet flight attendants who kept Tyler company.
During our 2nd drink and snack service, we hit some VERY choppy air and I experienced some of the worst turbulance I have ever felt. (Take note that we had just recieved 3 cups of liquid and they are sitting on Tyler's tray.) What didn't help, was the fact that Tyler could not find a comfy position to sit during these very bumpy moments, and most of his drink was finding its way onto him and the seat. After the 3rd time of knocking his tray, I got a bit irritated and sqeezed his arm while letting him know of my displeasure. After I spoke my peace and let go of his arm, he fired back with "Santa is watching out for you!" I guess that put me on the naughty list!
At the very end of the flight, one of Tyler's flight attendant buddies gave everyone quite the scare. Just when the pilot announced that we were beginning our decent into the L.A. area, the poor guy had a seizure and fell to the ground right beside my seat! In fact, he knocked my shoulder on the way down. I felt horrible and so helpless. After some frantic commotion, and a call to any doctor or nurse who might be on board, he eventually came around and was able to walk off the plane with the paramedics. What I found very sweet, was that Allison was so concerned during the whole ordeal. She sat very still and quiet, but wanted to watch everyting that was happening. She was able to sense that something just wasn't right about the situation. She's a very intuitive little girl! From conversation I was able to conclude that he had never had a seizure before, but could possibly be diabetic (which runs in his family, but he hadn't yet tested positive for). I also learned that he had been flying all day long with not much to eat. So most likely, his blood sugar dropped too low causing him to have the seizure. I just felt so bad for him, especially after he had gone out of his way to occupy Tyler to give me the chance to go to the restroom. However, other than a few bumps and bruises from the fall, I'm sure he's fine!
So that's our journey in a nutshell! It really was a great flight...long, but great! I do have to admit, however, that I am happy that Billy will be on the return flight with us so I don't have to undertake it alone again. He gets here tomorrow and we are very excited! YAY!
