The Happiest Place on Earth

I lit a candle Friday night and prayed for safe travel for Naysia and her group, among other things. There was very little sleep for me as all I could do was think about what lay ahead.

The alarm went off at 5am, but I did not get out of the bed until 515am.  I showered and dressed~most thrilled that for a change I did not have a bag to pack.  Checked, double checked and triple checked for ID and cash in my purse.

The car was gassed up the night before so no early morning stops needed to be made.  I was on I-10 West by 645am.  As I entered Phoenix my only thought was, please don't let there be a dust storm this evening on our way home.

The flight to LA was uneventful.  I luckily had a window seat.  On the way I read and dozed off.  We arrived right on schedule.  I printed my return ticket and headed to the Tom Bradley International Terminal.

Asiana Flight 020 was scheduled to arrive at 12pm, I got to the terminal about 1145.  The arrival floor is set up like so:  There is a circular area in the center of the room that makes for a dramatic arrival.  Surrounding the area are bars to keep those waiting from entering.  Along the wall is a huge screen announcing flight times, arrivals, delays, etc.  As I faced the area I noticed people straggling up a ramp on the right side.  I settled into a spot directly across the ramp and impatiently waited for her to walk up-Her flight arrived 10 minutes early, surely she'd be making her way around the corner soon.

As I waited I people watched.  Numerous nationalities, ages, professions, men, women, boys and girls all gathered in the same room, waiting.  Waiting for a friend, family member, undoubtedly a loved one to emerge.  I smiled listening to cheers, reading "welcome home" signs, and seeing people embrace often times with tears rolling down their cheeks.  This was one of the happiest places I've ever been.

I was about to burst waiting for my turn to hug my girl!