New York City Was Great!

Bittersweet doesn’t even begin to cover our last day in New York City.

We took our time getting up that morning, knowing we had to be out of the hotel by 11 a.m. After dropping our luggage downstairs, we squeezed in a little more exploring—because how do you not soak up every last second in the city? We walked about six blocks to the subway and went on a mission to replace the souvenirs I’d accidentally left behind at a restaurant earlier in the trip (still hurts a little 😅). Thankfully, I found the perfect replacements—postcards, keychains, and even a t-shirt—so all was right again.

We wandered a bit more before heading back to Johny’s  for breakfast one last time (because when you find a good spot, you stick with it). Then it was time to make our way toward the airport. We hopped on the subway and caught the Q70 free bus to LaGuardia, arriving nice and early—Jessica was not taking any chances with TSA lines, and honestly, fair enough.

After getting through security, we found our gate and settled in. Blake and Jessica grabbed lunch, while I went for a protein bowl—simple, but it hit the spot. Later, Blake and I found some loungers, and I finally gave my feet a break. I spent most of that time reading on my Kindle and just resting… which was very much needed after walking over 53,000 steps and climbing 34 flights of stairs during this trip. I’m still impressed with myself for that one!

Our flight ended up being delayed about 45 minutes due to a storm, and then we sat on the tarmac for another hour waiting our turn. At one point, the pilot said there were 12 planes ahead of us—and just as many behind us. It was a whole situation.

By the time we made it back to Dallas-Fort Worth and got home, it was around 4 a.m. I was beyond exhausted… but also incredibly grateful.

This trip was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The kind you carry with you long after it’s over. And honestly? I don’t think I’ve seen the last of New York City. There’s just too much left to see and do. 

My journey to see Trevor’s Family!

Am many of yall know I have really been into murals. Loved seeing all the art on the walls at the Oklahoma Will Rodger’s Airport. 

Today’s travel felt like an adventure from start to finish. I got up at 3:30 AM, left by 4:00 AM, and headed to the airport. Glad I left early — Oklahoma City’s airport was unexpectedly packed, and it took ages to snag a parking spot in the garage. The last time I flew (in February), I don’t remember things being nearly as crowded.

Going through security turned out to be surprisingly smooth. I didn’t have to take off my shoes, pull out my gadgets, or unpack my liquids. That was a pleasant surprise! Then I wandered down to my gate — unfortunately, mine was all the way at the end of the terminal. Definitely not as easy to reach as some of the more central ones.

Boarding began around 7:30 AM, and my flight was at 8:00 AM, bound for Denver International Airport (DEN). I was excited to pass through Denver again because it’s been years since I’ve been there. Two of the art installations I was hoping to catch were:

• “It’s Not What You Take, It’s What You Bring Back” by Thomas “Detour” Evans — this lively sculpture, hanging in Concourse B, is made from 183 upcycled luggage pieces donated by Colorado residents. It forms a looping, dynamic shape that evokes the movement of flights and transitions, while its colors echo the hues of sunrise and sunset. 
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• “Experimental Aviation” by Patty Ortiz — this installation features 140 small airplane forms suspended from the ceiling and welcomes travelers arriving via the train platform into the Jeppesen Terminal.  

While waiting for my next flight, I grabbed a taco for lunch. Around me, I saw three different people misplace their paper tickets and get frantic. I felt some relief that I had my ticket on my phone (even though I’d been hesitant about relying fully on tech). That decision probably saved me from a panicked moment or two.

Finally, boarding time came, and I headed off to my final leg — Williston, North Dakota. My scheduled arrival was 2:15 PM, but we actually landed a few minutes early, which was nice. At the terminal in Williston, a crew was filming something about the airport — a fun surprise.

My family — Mellisa, Kyndall, and little Liam — were waiting for me. We were all hungry, so we headed to Qboda’s (a place similar to Chipotle). My bowl was a hit: lime, cilantro, white rice, pinto beans, chicken, corn, pico de gallo, and guacamole. Delicious. After lunch, there was about an hour drive to their home.

Once we got home, I finally got to hold Liam and catch up with Kyndall and Mellissa. I Trevor got home from work around 6:30 pm. Seeing everyone together made the whole day worth it. Despite the early wake-up, crowded airports, and long journey, it was a great travel experience — full of anticipation, art, and, best of all, reunion.

There’s nothing like a big ole hug from Kyndall Mae! My heart is full with love.