Oh there are certain rhythms inside a child that keeps them singing and cooing at all waking moments.  It allows them to explore and question non stop.  It is an internal condition that makes a squirmy body normal and restless legs not so much an ailment but an asset.  All of these glories of childhood, while very conducive to learning and growing are exactly the instincts and tendencies that make flying complicated.

On my mission north I attacked as a solo one.  My preparations and supplies were vast but compact.  Provisions were plentiful and within reach at all times thanks our new holders (the lap top lunch box… never thought I would spend so much time researching lunch boxes… this one is bpa free, made in USA, and so very useful).  The trip was not altogether bad.  I loaded the Ipod with books on CD and stories and favorite songs, all compiled on a playlist entitled “road trip”.  I brought along Miles weaving.  I feared no stares when nursing my not so tiny one year old in public.  I sang kids songs unabashedly.  I accepted help graciously.

Oh, but the way home.  Glorious.  To have help!  My dear, sweet man was able to accompany us on the return trip.  Despite angry stares and hostile remarks from a seat mate (who claimed she had children even though she huffed and puffed and all but blew my house down upon finding out it was us who would reside next to her for all of an hour-long flight) we felt utter success as we stepped off each flight with no true enemies and little crumbs left behind.

While I often don’t feel I am in a place for advice giving, I feel I have got this one down.  

So here is my two cents:

5. No matter the decibel your child’s voice reaches, keep a smile on your face.  A smile does wonders.

4.  Get assistance if you need to take a bus, trolley, wagon ride, whatever in between flights.

3.  Make eye contact and smile at flight attendants.  You might need them.

2.  Bring an extra shirt for yourself and something to freshen up with, be it deodorant or perfume or baking soda I dont care, I promise it will make you feel like a new woman after your days work and before greeting your loved ones.

1.  Do not order a cocktail.  If both your children fall asleep order a cocktail.

That is all.  You know the rest.  Good luck.