Tif woke when we started quietly preparing for our departure. KC slept through it all.The Quality Inn in Billings was wonderful. They provided free shuttle service for Tif and KC, a free breakfast buffet and even free chili for a late snack the night before.
After sad parting hugs with Tiffany, we were quickly out the door and on our way to Billings Airport.
The little propeller airplane was a surprise.
The flight was uneventful to Seattle and we had an early morning brunch of Ivar's clam chowder.
Once on the airplane we were shown that it was 2,677 miles between Seattle and Honolulu. It was startling to realize that our road trip according to the minivan rental company covered 2,648 miles.
It felt strange to be home in Hawaii again. Cousin Arnold was there to pick up his mom and us.
When I got up the following morning, I didn't quite know where I was and felt a little disappointment that there wasn't one more day to see even more of our country and Canada's wonders.And then the jet lag hit!
But you know what? It was worth it! It truly was a fabulous trip and we were awfully lucky in so many ways. Everyone in Yellowstone and Glacier told us about the humungous snowfall they had the week before we arrived. When we talked to our neighbors in Hawaii they all told us about the horrendously unseasonable and violent weather Hawaii had been having while we were gone.
All I can say is... we were lucky, very lucky.
2,648 miles is like driving around the island a thousand times.
ReplyDeleteHope the jet lag disappeared quickly!
ReplyDeleteI'm reading this at 4:30 AM because we are up to see Jill and the kids off. tom is thaking them to the airport now to begin their trip back to Fort Morgan, CO. Parting is such sweet sorrow, as you well know. We are fortunate in that they will be back in less than a month, with Corey this time.
ReplyDeleteNo jet lag for us, but lots of sorting and putting away and house cleaning and laundry to do.
I have enjoyed reading about and seeing your trip. And by now your jet lag is just a memory.
Happy summer.
I've really enjoyed reading about your trip. That's one of the places I've always fancied visiting, but probably never will, so seeing your photographs and reading about your adventures have been great. I always love waking up in my own bed on the first day back from holiday, and knowing that no matter how much fun it was I'm home again.
ReplyDeleteYou and your family are so energetic Kay, that is a lot of miles. I think the success of the trip is a tribute to your careful planning.
ReplyDeleteI have sat in that same place in the airport in Seattle. It was a wonderful journey, and you shared it with your blogging friends (like me) in a wonderful way. And now it is chronicled here for you to enjoy again if you want. Not to mention once a few years have gone by, these pictures and recollections will be priceless. Hugs to you, Kay!
ReplyDeleteWe traveled a lot by propeller plains while on a trip to Nepal.Little scary though .What a wonderful trip you had .I am sure KC is going to remember it fondly :):)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this with us Kay.
a vacation should always leave you wanting more...and welcome home-that's always nice to arrive there safely after so many miles of traveling...
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you had such a wonderful trip and I've really enjoyed following you along through your photos! The jet lag will be gone soon! Hope you have a great week, Kay!
ReplyDeleteSylvia
Little propeller airplane?
ReplyDeleteStrictly speaking, that is a turbo-prop.
It is a Canadian machine, a Dash-8 400, 70-80 seater. They go like a greyhound!
For fuel economy & running cost they are just perfect for short hops.
They cost about $27 million.
You see them just about everywhere in the world these days.
What a great trip you had!!! Thanks for taking us along!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe last time I spent 14 days abroad was in 1990 when we traveled to Croatia. Ever since then, we've traveled only for 7 days at a time -- mainly because of the expense, but also because David can't take too much time off from work. He is needed.
ReplyDeleteWelcome home, Kay.
ReplyDeleteYou all look so cute in the Seattle Airport!
I've been in that spot too, although I usually go to a Tully's and have a tall latte and a croissant.
Aw, say it isn't so. I am so sorry your trip is over for I really enjoyed it and it didn't cost me a penny. Thanks for letting us tag along.
ReplyDeleteGlad you missed the messy weather at home.
I love when you go on vacation, Kay! It's always such fun to see your photo's and to hear about your adventures. Okay, so where to next?
ReplyDeleteYour vacation was one many of us enjoyed! Thanks for taking the time and effort to share. Welcome home.
ReplyDeleteThose narrow turbo-jets are fun for a change of pace.
ReplyDeleteYou really drove as many miles as you flew?? No wonder you have jet lag and all other kinds of lag.
Joyce: North to Alaska! :-)
ReplyDelete