Flying

To the stewardess on the flight between Minneapolis and Oklahoma City:

I realize you may be fairly new to the job. I also realize you probably don't have children... but please try to understand...

1. We are seasoned travelers. Both of our children have been on airplanes several times and are used to them. That being said, we already know that there are 3 masks on the right side of the aircraft and only 2 on the left.
2. Given that knowledge, we understand that our child in arms should stay on the side of the aircraft with the proper oxygen mask availability in case of an emergency.
3. Children are funny creatures. By making us switch seats, you caused our 3 year old to be upset. Causing other passengers distress until we were able to calm him.
4. Once we switched and everyone settled, the 1 year old decided it was time to play a few fun games.
5. The basic law of toddler-hood states that there is always more fun to be had on the other side of the aisle...until you are on that side, then there is more fun on the other side. This game can go on for hours. It is futile to remind us every single time the baby shifts to the "wrong" side of the aircraft as his position will shift frequently.
6. Rest assured, in the event of an emergency, we WILL take care of the babes. We WILL make sure they have oxygen masks. Therefore, you can rest. You have let us know, your job is done.

To the man and woman on our flights returning home. You know who you are. You gave up your seats and moved - whether this was a thoughtful gesture or purely selfish desire to not sit next to a toddler is irrelevant - thank you.

You realized that flying with a small child is challenging. You both had window seats - his favorite spot on the airplane. You both let us have your seat so he could travel securely and see out the window. He really enjoyed his flights because you were able to move. He loves to fly - almost as much as he enjoys his personal space. So, thank you for allowing him that space.

I hope you were pleasantly surprised that the flight was relatively peaceful and neither of our boys threw tantrums. We know how to keep them entertained and happy. But you deserve some credit for your assistance. You will never know how helpful you were.