We arrived in the hotel lobby extra early in order to catch the first 5 am shuttle, but several others were also gathering. Fortunately the hotel realized it was soon going to be absolute chaos so they immedately began loading us up to send the shuttle out at 4:45 am. As it was, we barely got a seat, and only because some parents held their kids sit on their laps and we could squeeze in extra people.
We arrived at the airport at 5:50. The security line was soooo long that it extended three rows beyond where the roped-off area began. Other folks from the shuttle had rebooked to an earlier 7 am flight. There was no way they were going to make it. At one portion of the line, we had to pair up and walk slowly past some drug-sniffing dogs. The leashed animals were walked around each set of people, but I suspect they hardly realized they were "working". The black labs were incredibly happy and excited and kept jumping up to play with their handlers. They were not nearly as intimidating as German Shephards have been at other airports.
Sunrise
We were given more food vouchers for breakfast.
Watching the small truck back up a plane from the gate
These things were designed with two seats and steering wheels facing the opposite directions, so it can be driven either way.
Finally in the air
The Mississippi River
Some bayou
Leaving the river far below us
A rainbow!
Extra snacks since now the flight was only one-third full. ... The Rocky Mountains mean we're almost home!
Denver International Airport
(left) The tents are meant to represent the Rocky Mountains.
My Mardi Gras cat mask souvenir to remember an amazing trip!
