This past weekend, we traveled from Dublin to Amarillo, Texas to spend December with friends and family in the US. The journey is definitely a long one…3 flights, 4 airports, and about 20 hours of total transit time. Add three kids to the mix, and it makes for a volatile combination.
Mercifully, our trip was virtually trouble-free. Thanks to Patrick being an “infant in arms”, we got to sit in the bulkhead row (read: lots of space) for the transatlantic flight. On the Newark to Houston flight, we got to fly in a brand new Boeing 787 Dreamliner. It was a really nice plane. On both of those flights, we had in-flight entertainment, and I think Isaac watched “Cars” about 4 times. (But hey – he was quiet!)
On our final flight, we were on a small commuter jet to Amarillo. It is one of those tiny planes, and it felt even tinier after flying on the Dreamliner. When we boarded the plane, Isaac asked, “Where is my TV?” Not in a whiny voice, but just curious why this plane didn’t have in-flight entertainment. I explained that this plane did not have a TV, because it was so small. He was quiet for a few minutes, and then asked where his blanket and pillow were. Again, I explained that our flight was shorter, so we really didn’t need blankets and pillows. Essentially, Isaac thought that ALL planes have TVs, pillows and blankets provided. (Insert jaded expat kid joke here!) I didn’t think much of his questions, as we were completely exhausted.
Meanwhile, the flight attendant began the standard safety demonstration when Isaac suddenly asked, in that loud little-kid voice, “What is she DOING?”
Embarrassing! (Also – why is it that a preschooler’s voice will carry without any microphone needed?!)
He was completely baffled by the in-person safety demonstration. On the previous flights, the demonstration was done by video. I tried to explain what the flight attendant was doing, and Isaac was so confused…and the flight attendant was a bit miffed. Oh well.
Adventures in traveling with children!
I think Isaac will keep you on your toes. He is so smart and observant. Glad the trip was safe (even though long). Have fun.