Up Up and Away!

Preparations for travel progressed without incident on Saturday. Completed last minute work tasks that are due while I'm gone, readied the house, Always like to tie up loose ends. I even took the time to drop in on my Son and his family for a short visit in Troutdale. Will attempt to send this post to the blog via email before I leave the country. This will be a first as I normally travel with a laptop domestically and rely on Internet Cafes and hotel business centers internationally.

My aisle seat preference was not originally assigned, however I was fortunate to score aisle seats on both flights when I checked in Saturday night! Gotta love online check-in day before flight. Front of the economy section from Portland to Newark NJ (PDX to EWR) a 5 hour flight.

Took a break away from the blog to watch the feature film--Accidental Husband. Cute comedy; LOL entertainment. The plane is on decent now for EWR. Seems like a long flight but just a primer for what comes next-- a little longer than a 10 hour flight, whew.

One of the flight attendants gave me a primer on what to expect at the gate for my flight to Tel Aviv. Once I pass final screening and enter the waiting area I will not be allowed to leave. The caveat that followed was invaluable--there is NOTHING at the gate area. It is void of shops, restaurants, snacks, beverages, and even RESTROOMS! Want to make sure I enter that area just as the plane is boarding. Really glad I chatted up the crew while begging a final cup of coffee. Soon will find myself once again at Liberty Airport in Newark, New Jersey.

The lines were so long at Smashburger, had to know what the fuss was all about.  i ordered the Classic and it was okay.  They boast that there are two types of people--Those who crave Smashburger, and those who have not yet been here. like said, it was good but don't expect I will be developing a craving.