From The Land Of Haw: Friday September 26, 2014

Up about 6 to get ready to meet the shuttle to the airport, we met the shuttle with a few others and arrived at the airport in good time. Our flight was scheduled to leave at 8:50 - it was on time. Mary Lynn had advised us (gave strict orders) prior to leaving home to pack light - one soft carry on each. We were able to accommodate her request (demand) until we picked up the Peanut Butter and the coffee beans. We checked on the piece of luggage with the peanut butter and put the coffee in a carry on pack sack. We checked in, received our flight passes and then off to the security check. They pulled the pack sack aside and called us over. That was also uneventful - so far so good.

Off we went, Allan clarified with me what gate we were to be at for boarding, I checked my ticket which indicated A 26 North Terminal. Off we went. We were told to be at our gate 20 min prior to boarding, we had over an hour so we stopped for coffee and a beagle, had a bathroom brake and then it was 20 min prior to boarding. No sweat, gate 26 was just down the hall on our right - piece of cake. Off we went with light luggage in tow to gate 26. The day was going good - when we arrived at gate 26 there was something going on and it was not a welcoming for passengers going from Detroit to St. Louis! Allan asked an airport employee what was happening, he said "I would be very surprised if you flight is leaving from this gate." He suggested- " Perhaps you should check your boarding pass Mam.

Holy crap! Allan gave me that "You are soooo lucky murder is illegal" look , Yes you are right - what is a vacation without an adventure - Anne goofed - our tickets said "Gate 261 South Terminal".Oh S--t! Now we are on the run - upstairs to the tram, caught it and off we went. We exited the capsule and ran to Gate 261 - we made it in time - they had already called our names over the PA, and the staff at the boarding gate were very happy to see their last loading passengers going aboard.

Due to a fire at Chicago International we were about 10 minutes delayed from take-off - a short wait while they redirected our flight around Chicago airspace. Our flight arrived safely and we met up with Greg and Mary Lynn at passenger pickup, so glad we bought the cell phone. Soon we were on our way to do some shopping, sight seeing and lunch.

We arrived at Alton Marina and the Fracas - I hope this goes well. Allan and I have never spent any more that a short period of time on a boat let alone possibly 2 weeks! Our first treat was a short trip to the pool where we relaxed in a hot sun and temperatures in the high 80's. That set the mood, we are looking forward to a wonderful 2 weeks!