The first day of our Make a Wish trip had it’s ups and downs, as always with travel. SeaTac went all out for us this morning. We had eight Port of Seattle police officers come to the gate with their 3-wheel Segway and the bomb sniffing dog. Ethan got to ride the Segway and Elyse loved the dog, of course. Then the huge airport firetrucks (they are neon yellow!) rolled up on the tarmac outside our gate. Ethan was escorted out and down to the trucks where he got to climb around and wear the firemen’s hat. Then we got to go on the plane extra early so Ethan could visit with the pilots.
When we were airbourne the pilot came on the speaker and told everyone about Ethan being on the plane to go on his Make a Wish trip. Then he said he was going to do a half turn around Mount Rainier just so Ethan could have a closer look. Boy, he was NOT kidding! We were close enough to see the different glaciers and it was beyond cool! Even the stewardesses said they’ve never been that close. Apparently the pilot got special permission to do this just for us. What a treat!
Unfortunately our itinerary was a little less than ideal. Our layover for Detroit was in Phoenix of all places. Making a five hour flight into an eight hour trip. But, in Phoenix they arranged for us to ride between gates in one of the airport transfer carts which Ethan has always wanted to do! So that was fun.
Then we got to Detroit and shuttled to the rental car agency. Unfortunately Justin twisted his ankle getting out of the bus on some uneven concrete. He was in a lot of pain and the ankle swelled up immediately. So Justin dropped us off at the hotel and then drove himself to the ER. The doctor thinks that it is not broken but there is so much swelling that it’s obscuring the xray results. So he will be wearing a walking cast for now until we can follow up with our regular doctor at home. Prayers for speedy healing of Justin’s ankle would be much appreciated.
Tomorrow is “the big day” involving limo rides and lego masters. We are very excited for everything that is in store!
Wish I had known you were in the Phoenix airport…….I would have tried to come and cheer you on your way. We only live a few miles (and only 10 minites) from Sky Harbor. I probably watched your plane go by the house and did not even know it.
I do hope the rest of the trip goes smoothly and Justin is not in too much pain.
Love to you all,
Mary Pat and Roger