Was up past midnight, still pulling things together to pack. Everything was there, but somehow the final packing always sneaks up. At 12:30 a.m., I finally surrendered and got a few hours of sleep.

Alarm went off at 4 a.m. — rushed to get dressed, grab a quick breakfast, and throw the final touches on my bags. No matter how much you prep, there’s always something last-minute. Like mowing the backyard at 6 a.m. so Sydnee wouldn’t come home to jungle grass. Sorry, neighbors — it’s an electric mower at least!

The girls were there when I stepped out the door, those sweet, eager faces watching me like they were ready for a walk. Sydnee had already left for work, but their silent send-off hit me hard. I love them so much — it’s never easy leaving.

The airport was packed. Even TSA PreCheck was a bust — apparently, everyone and their brother has it now. The line was insane (pic to prove it!).And of course, one last VPN fix before leaving turned into a mini disaster. I flipped the wrong setting, now Sydnee has to reset the router. Fingers crossed — she’s not exactly tech support, but we’ll figure it out. 🤦‍♂️

Now I’m on the plane. We’re taxiing, ready for takeoff.

Here I go… holding my breath.

Big thanks to my mom for the ride. She remains a mystery on the road — both wildly cautious and oddly reckless at the same time. Mostly safe, I think. 😉