(the body of this post was actually written on September 20, while I was on the airplane flying from California to Oregon)
I Am: On Horizon Airlines flight 7548, flying from Ontario, California to Portland, Oregon to visit Michael and Melinda and to celebrate Bevan's 13th birthday...
I Remember: The first time I took a flight to celebrate Bevan's birthday, September 1998, your first birthday. I flew from Ontario, California to Lexington, Kentucky (where you were living with Noni and Granddad). How could 12 more years have passed since then? So many things have changed ...
* East Coast vs. West Coast (2 hour flight in the same time zone as opposed to 5-1/2 hour flight in multiple time zones.)
* You were the only grandchild, now there are four kids in your family.
* I was still married to your grandpa (but that marriage ended 7 years ago, and I've been married to Ron Bennett for the last 3 years.
* Then I was very nervous (terrified is a better word) about flying. I had everyone praying with me for a guardian angel to keep calm. The prayers worked and God did provide the calming presence I needed. Thankfully in the years (and birthday trips) which have passed, I have grown very comfortable with flying - though I still pray for safekeeping and peace.
One thing hasn't changed: The thrill I feel each time I'm on a trip to visit you. You changed my life when you were born. I thought I had experienced the greatest joy and love when my own kids were born, but there is something even more special about grandchildren.
Happy 13th Birthday, Bevan! I am so happy I get to be with you to celebrate!
