Our original flight home from Daytona yesterday morning on AirTran was cancelled (good thing Joni had me check it out on the airline’s website). We managed to book an alternate flight out of Orlando that was only 2 hours later, and Baba & Poppa offered to drive us. So it all worked out fine.

As compensation for the inconvenience, they agreed to upgrade us to Business Class, which was cool. On the second leg, from Atlanta to Detroit, we were in the first row, and our flight attendant, Jennifer, asked Carson if he wanted to see the cockpit. “Ya!” was his one-word answer. I asked if I could go with him, not wanting to miss out. So of course, I took my camera and got some pics.

The captain was great, as was the co-pilot. They insisted that he sit in the captain’s seat and wear his hat, and hold on to the throttle-thingy. I was laughing the entire time. Then they gave him a little pin with wings to wear.

It was a wonderful treat for the Number 1 Son and us, and when we returned to our seats, I saw a lot of smiles on the faces of the other passengers.

Then, when the captain came on the intercom before we departed to make his various announcements, he said, “On behalf of Captain Carson and the crew, I’d like to welcome you aboard …”, etc. That drew a lot of laughs and Carson had a beaming smile. He did the same when we landed, although the honourary captain was still asleep at that point.

I can’t imagine a more fun flying experience for a little boy (and a big boy, too, for that matter!). I gave the captain my card with the blog address on it, so if you’re reading this, Captain Patrick, we can’t thank you and the rest of the crew enough.

A big seat for a little guy.

Anybody in here?

It’s Captain Carson.

Captain Patrick says it’s easy to fly a plane.

Sure wears you out, though.

Right now, I’m looking out my office window at blowing snow on a cold, wintery day, looking a little nasty. First thing this morning, Carson said, “I want to go back to Flordia”, and I concurred.

Here’s the Environment Canada warning for today:

Sheesh … yesterday, everyone was complaining because it was only going to be in the low 70’s and cloudy in Daytona. Sure seems good now.

More pics from Florida to follow.