When one cannot get the passenger in the plane, you can count on the kindness of the shiny Santa Monica Airport police to help.
Before departing I telephoned a briefer and they promptly informed me that my destination airport was hosting an air show. Thankfully, my trusty friend Colin, suggested to push ahead and mention that I am carrying an Angel Flight passenger and they will allow me to land. Sure enough, he was right again. I landed, arranged for more kindly men -- firemen this time -- to help my passenger out of the aircraft.
What I was not expecting is that I was now grounded. The nice tower people told me not to expect a take-off for a few hours. I was meant to sit back, relax and enjoy the air show. Something that was definitely not on my calendar. Which brings me to a very important point. Many of you know, I'm about to embark on my first X-Country. If I learned one thing today, it is that I cannot be in a hurry. I will, contrary to my normal pace saunter across America.
