Back to the Cold and Rain

Our flights home didn't leave until 12:15pm, so we were able to sleep in and have time to detox, repack, and relax.  At our late breakfast, we ran into several members of our tour group, all of whom were staying in Tucson for one or more extra days.  Ah, the life of retired people!

I had forgotten how small the Tucson Airport really is.  We boarded the hotel shuttle at 10:15am, and by 10:30, we had already reached the airport, checked-in, gone through security, and walked to the gate.  It was unreal, but very much appreciated.

We connected in Houston, and as we waited in the lounge for our flight to Dulles, it occurred to me that I had never flown through Houston, even though it is a major hub for United.  The plane taking us home had arrived a little late, but the crew did a great job boarding the very full flight quickly, and we managed to take off with only a short delay.

Waiting for Final Flight, from Houston to Dulles

We landed in a cold, very rainy DC.  Watching the rain come down in sheets through the airplane window did an all-too-good job in washing away any remaining vacation euphoria, and the reality of returning to work in less than 12 hours sunk in.  We both got pretty soaked getting into the cab, but the house was warm when we got here, as was the bed.  Missing was Chip, to welcome us and make the bed even warmer, but we'll see him soon.  In the meantime, we have time to reflect on the journey we just took.

Some of Our Purchases -- They All Survived the Trip!