And home again... — this encore life

Knowing how to tackle weird schedules and be flexible are essential when traveling. And so it was we nearly finished packing our bags and then, with travel clothes at the ready, climbed into bed around 9 pm, setting our alarms for 11:45. We were to have our bags outside the door at midnight, and we’d all leave for the new Istanbul airport at 12:30 for our 4:15 am departure. Who knows if we actually slept those few hours, but at least we rested in preparation for the homeward leg of our adventure.

Given the hour, our van driver was able to navigate the streets and highways to the airport in a mere 35 minutes. Istanbul sparkled as we drove along—the mosques particularly lovely and peaceful. City workers sprayed the streets with water and tidied up—this is by far the most spotless country I’ve been to.

Then suddenly it appeared—this new airport, soon to be the largest in the world when completed. Like glittering diamonds set in a black velvet sky, the main terminal burst into view. We climbed out, grabbed our luggage, and thus began our trek home.

Artist’s rendering of completed Istanbul airport. So far the mosque (in the middle) and the top building are complete

Imagine Terminal 1 at the MSP airport—at this point one long row of airline check-in areas. And now envision our group entering into an echoing expanse of 14 double rows. We needed to find the P17-22 area, and set off for a good 5 minute walk.

We were heartened to wait only 10 minutes or so until the check-in team arrived to begin helping us. As you know, airports are pretty vigilant about security, so when, “Emergency, Emergency: Evacuate the building immediately!” blared over the intercom, we were more than a little unnerved. Again the urgent message came, asking us to avoid elevators, but to evacuate immediately.

So...our brains tried to make sense of the situation. May Day attack? Another coup? Bring our luggage? I selfishly thought, well, I’m about 10th in line and want to keep my spot! I decided to evaluate the reaction of the employees, and though some were looking around curiously, the check-in team continued its business as if nothing were amiss. Hence...stayed in line, ignored the evacuation order, and after 15 minutes, the “all clear” was announced. Got our heart rate up a bit.

Love how this handy backpack sleeve fits over my carry-on handle

From there on, we sat in an area near our enclosed gate that opened about 30 minutes before departure, and eventually climbed aboard for Paris.

Three hours and we landed in dreary weather. We were surprised to be passport controlled as we deplaned, and the seven of us on this flight parted to various transfer gates to the states after hugs and good-byes.

Jane, Sally, and I were to find 2E for our flight to Minneapolis. With that in mind, we took off—only to find that 2E was a terminal, not a gate. After nearly losing Jane, we found our gate, enjoyed some coffee and an obligatory croissant, and relaxed until boarding around 10 am Paris time.

I’d booked a bulkhead seat and was able to set my carry-on in front of me, fully stretch my legs, and enjoy the 8 ½ hour flight. Drinks? First just tomato juice, but then couldn’t resist some Chardonnay— had two in fact during the flight!

Nothing exciting in the movie selection, so I read, relaxed and landed on time in Minneapolis. Passport control was a breeze for Jane and me with Global Entry, and after finding our bags, we emerged from the international gate to find my sweetheart Kirk waiting for us. So nice to see a familiar face!

Now I sit on the porch back in southern Minnesota. Pelicans swim in the bay before the house, joggers and cyclists enjoy the morning spring air, and I am again reminded why spring is my favorite time of year—renewal, another chance.

Why I enjoyed this trip so was the opportunity to explore and learn. The privilege of such travel does not escape me, and I’m grateful for having found such a cohesive, companionable group. I knew that whoever traveled with Ann Marie would be interesting, unique, and fun. I was not disappointed. Miss the gang and Turkey already. My heart is full.

Missing Turkey and this group with all my heart