We spent Sunday night with Laura’s brother’s family in Seattle . We were well looked after by Brian, Ally, Olivia and Clare and had a good time watching the Super,Bowl ( at least the second half) with them and Laura’s, sister, Sarah, and her husband, Kevin.
Our flight to Amsterdam left Seattle at 2:30. We flew to Amsterdam arriving at about 9:00 a.m. their time. We had a layover for a couple of hours before flying to Lisbon. We finally got to bed at about 9:00 p.m. local time (I think that is about 1:00 p.m. PST).
All the luggage (including two car seats and a stroller) was, for me at least, a bit of a worry but Jesse and Laura were ready for it. In Seattle we were, believe it or not, able to take it all on the plane as carry-ons! ( I think this was because the plane was far from full.) In Amsterdam they were not as forgiving. The plane was much smaller and pretty much full. So, we had to check a couple of bags but, in the end. It all worked out and (with a bit of squeezing) everything fit into the.rental car.
The kids did really well on the flights. Jasper, who is only three and a half months old was pretty good. He required quite a bit of attention from Laura (who is still breastfeeding him) but overall he did well. Sage who Is two years and three months old did exceptionally well. She kept herself entertained all the way to Amsterdam. She had a window seat and Jesse was beside her (a nice “trapping” move that proved to be unnecessary). At one point she spent well over an hour unpacking and then re-packing her books and toys into their travel bag and then there was another half hour learning how to insert and then remove the headphone jack!
Sage lasted until we had to board the plane in Amsterdam. She then slept basically all the way to Lisbon. So, I think we all felt pretty happy with both the two big worries – the luggage and how the kids would travel. And we are all still talking to one another!
There were a couple of minor snafus – saved for another post as I am getting concerned about the length of this one.