Friday, April 10, 2009

SFO is my favorite airport

Is it wrong or weird that I feel completely at home at SFO? I know the restaurants (and waitresses), the rest rooms, the stores, the gates, and the best thing... the location of every outlet. I have spent many, many hours in this airport and other than the fact that I have to pay for internet, it's pretty much my favorite airport. And it's also such a great place to people watch. I find it interesting to see how people dress. Me, I personally go for comfort when I travel, yet with a hint of professionalism (you never know when you might get an opportunity to network). Usually cargo pants, a sweater, and my comfy shoes that slip on and off easily. And always, I have the trusted backpack. THE backpack that has traveled around the world with me and has never let me down. :-) I think most of my emotional attachment comes from the fact that I used to sneak treats and little pieces of meat in it into Bangara when he was at the hospital in Bangalore.

Back to people watching... most people are business casual, but there's always those few who are either over the top professional (although they look very nice), the few seeking comfort that look like they're wearing pajamas (oh wait.... they are), and then there's the women who like they have something to sell... LOL .

I'm waiting on my flight home after a very interesting few weeks. I went from Phoenix to Boston, visited my family for one very quick day, to Providence, RI. My class there was great - a private construction firm. I knew the place was cool when I was greeted by the office dog, Haley. (The conference room also came equipped with a fridge holding a stash of beer... and no, I didn't have any!). From Providence, I went to Houston. Unfortunately, that class was a little more challenging with an audience not quite prepared or enthusiastic for the course. I got to go home for 2 days, and although it was a very busy 2 days, it was wonderful. I miss my hubby, my girls, and my puppies so much when I'm gone.

It seems like I didn't even have a moment before I was back at the airport and headed to SF. But per the opening of this entry, SF is my home away from home. Or so I thought. On my numerous previous trips, I stayed down in the financial district and walked to the offices. This time, I was driving south of the city. The hotel was an extended stay hotel that reeked of fish and other food. My room was functional, but the smell definitely got to me. On the positive side, the conference center where I would be delivering the training was perfect. Located at a marina, the center was clean, set up well, and with a great staff that truly loved their work. Our lunch was prepared each day by a wonderful Hispanic lady who would tell us that it was "made with her love". So refreshing.

My class was a small group of incredible people and I really enjoyed it - especially after a tough week in Houston the week before.

As always, I meet people who strengthen my walk with God and remind me once again just how blessed we are. I had beautiful discussions with a few of my students, sharing the blessings in my life, learning from the blessings in theirs.

Thirty minutes and I will be on my way home to my husband.... and I can't wait.

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