Homeward Bound

Monday = travel day.

We woke up to another absolutely spectacular morning—blue skies, no wind (finally after a few blustery days). Coffee and cards kicked things off while Deb had monkey bread in the oven ahead of Stephanie’s dissertation defense at 9.

S and I packed up, I jumped in the shower, and he headed out for a walk. I followed shortly after for a quick 1 km loop—couldn’t waste that sunshine. Back inside, the defense was wrapping up, so I tucked into some blog work at the dining room table.

After about an hour and a half, the big moment—Stephanie was officially congratulated as Dr. Schmitt. Such a huge accomplishment. 🎉

Ashley had come over to watch the Zoom session, but once it wrapped up, she and Hippo headed out. The rest of us moved to the deck to soak up the last of the day. The weather shifted a bit—clouds rolled in, wind picked up—but we stayed out playing cards as long as we could.

A late lunch pulled us back inside, followed by one more game of Ticket to Ride. Then it was time—bags loaded, goodbyes said, and off to the airport. Huge thanks to Chuck and Debby for the incredible hospitality (and the airport chauffeur service!).

back at the ranch Harley was feeling lonely

Kaylin sent this adorable memory from a year ago <3

Airport was smooth—luggage drop, security, even duty free—and we were at the gate within 20 minutes. Boarding was next level—facial recognition tied to the photo from security. Fast and seamless.

Onboard, we realized it was a newer Boeing 737-800 setup—more legroom, coat hooks, phone stands, free Wi-Fi (fast enough for streaming), but only USB charging. Recliner seats? Extra. Boo.

I started a new series called The Cleaning Lady. S, on the other hand, had packed his headphones in his suitcase and hadn’t updated the WestJet app—so no Wi-Fi for him. He made do by reading captions off my screen. 

Took a snap of Shaina and Matt's new condo they finally secured in the distance :)

We landed early… but then came the usual delays—taxiing, unloading, customs, baggage claim. Our Uber driver took a creative route (despite S’s directions), but we eventually made it home, grabbed a tea, and settled in.

Home by 12:30. Lights out closer to 1:30 after a bit of reading.

Long day—but a really good one to end the trip.