California Dreaming
I was 15 the first time I ever flew in an airplane, an experience which cured me of a phobia I'd had since I was about 5. My father used to build them, and when I was very little he took me to work. All I remember of the visit was being frightened by how high the plane was. I remember walking under the wing and having it tower over me, like it was about to fall on me. For the next ten or so years I thought airplanes were huge, towering things, until I finally few on one and realised it was me that was small!
I loved that first flight, and for many years I've enjoyed flying, despite the inconveniences involved. I've now flown so many times that I hate the whole procedure, and the decline in service quality hasn't helped at all. So yesterday I wasn't in a great mood when I went to the airport.
Admittedly it was an off peak time, but I don't recall ever seeing an airport so busy during the day. No waiting for checkin, security, or even boarding. I lucked out on both legs of the journey, getting a window seat with an empty seat between me and the aisle.
I had been planning on taking a shuttle bus from the airport to the dropzone, for $90 one way, but when I phoned to book it I learned that they don't go from San Diego to Perris. So I decided to rent a car when I got to the airport, hoping it would be between $200-300 for the week. Fortunately I found a car place that had a small car available, and when I asked how much the guy told me 60 per week. I thought I hadn't heard correctly, and double checked the form before I signed it. I'm still expecting some kind of catch when I return the vehicle. This for a car with 8000 miles on it.
When I finally got to Perris my priorities were food and sleep, and not necessarily in that order. I went into town for something to eat and decided on a Jack in the Box because they'd be quick. There were about 5 police cars in the parking lot, but I pulled in anyway and asked if they were open. They said yes so I ordered my food and saw a couple more cops inside the restaurant, working on one of the tables. I gather they'd just busted some kid with a couple bags of crack. Nice neighbourhood.
I loved that first flight, and for many years I've enjoyed flying, despite the inconveniences involved. I've now flown so many times that I hate the whole procedure, and the decline in service quality hasn't helped at all. So yesterday I wasn't in a great mood when I went to the airport.
Admittedly it was an off peak time, but I don't recall ever seeing an airport so busy during the day. No waiting for checkin, security, or even boarding. I lucked out on both legs of the journey, getting a window seat with an empty seat between me and the aisle.
I had been planning on taking a shuttle bus from the airport to the dropzone, for $90 one way, but when I phoned to book it I learned that they don't go from San Diego to Perris. So I decided to rent a car when I got to the airport, hoping it would be between $200-300 for the week. Fortunately I found a car place that had a small car available, and when I asked how much the guy told me 60 per week. I thought I hadn't heard correctly, and double checked the form before I signed it. I'm still expecting some kind of catch when I return the vehicle. This for a car with 8000 miles on it.
When I finally got to Perris my priorities were food and sleep, and not necessarily in that order. I went into town for something to eat and decided on a Jack in the Box because they'd be quick. There were about 5 police cars in the parking lot, but I pulled in anyway and asked if they were open. They said yes so I ordered my food and saw a couple more cops inside the restaurant, working on one of the tables. I gather they'd just busted some kid with a couple bags of crack. Nice neighbourhood.