En Route

And we're off with the customary departure image.

The kids are already burning through the food stores designed to get them happlly to Athens at an alarming rate. Eating is one of their passions and vacation time brings a special license to chow. 

The kids rarely get soft drinks at home, but when we travel, especially in Asia, the soda flows freely.  Our last trip to Europe was our first big family adventure.  We had a deal with the kids that we would let them buy soda, but they would also have to buy access to the public toilets, which in some cases was up to 2€ (about $3.20 at the time).

On this trip the same rule will apply, not because we have to, but because it is fun to watch the kids try to figure out whether it is worth spending their money on something that will cost them on the way in and the way out. Tara understands the exchange rate is better this time so that her money will buy more pop and toilets, a good deal all the way around.  For now they are going to abuse the complimentary beverage service while we are in the air. 

In the minutes between taking my seat and grabbing my book I pulled out the American Way magazine to turn the pages. The girls were busy with their own mag and with each page flip seeing who would be the first to call out "mine" when the advertisement for this or that 'must have' product appeared.  Then I saw mine, the key to restoring my youthful vigor in the days of my mullet. There were no less than five ads for hair losers. What does this tell us about the air flying demographic?

The kiddos both brought a replacement animal for our non-stuffed one who is resorting at Pattis parents for a month. Lamby 1 is on the thrill ride here. 

When in Philly...  Although the kids are well traveled this was their first PCS, they loved it!