Gearing Up

After weeks of planning and days of packing, which included rejecting initial packing plans and starting over from the beginning, we finally got ourselves together, on the plane and to LAX. We planned an overnight stay here, which allowed us leeway in case of any delays in this first leg getting to LA. We must still have PTSD from the first leg delay on our Africa trip several years back.

We ended up with only very minor delays in the flight and luggage collection, but zoomed through car rental and even driving 45 miles down the dreaded 405 freeway, so that we were in Dad's living room less than two hours after the wheels touched down on the runway. Dad and Ilene took us out to a yummy lunch at King's Fish House. I had trout, Tom had mahi mahi, but I failed to take any pictures of the food. I did get a nice picture of Dad and Ilene, though.

We survived the drive back UP the 405, too, and are now safely ensconced in the LAX Crowne Plaza, one of many multi-storied high rise hotels lining the approach road to the airport.

We are always shocked at the California prices when we come back to visit. Gas is $3.05 a gallon, self-parking is $15 at the hotel, $23 if you want In and Out privileges, and your basic bacon and eggs breakfast is $23. But hey, wifi is free (if you are a member) and they gave us two free drinks in the bar. 😋 We're going to relax a bit, venture out somewhere for dinner, and then spend a lazy evening and morning before we head off to PERU!