New Jersey

Christmas Day, we loaded up the 3 kids and 15 or so bags to head to the airport. We were headed out on a flight to Newark at 11:30 am. My husband is from NJ and I have never been but we had to go for his father's wedding on Dec 29th. The cheapest flights were on Christmas Day and return New Years Eve. Those would be the days we fly. I had Pat call about the rental car before we left home because our flight was supposed to be in at 11:30 pm so I wanted to make sure we had a car. We booked on Expedia and National was the only agency with a SUV.

The flight was long and I get motion sickness so it was even longer for me. This was Ciara's first flight and she was so tired that I figured she would sleep. No, I was totally wrong, she never slept a wink on the plane. She was up and down the whole 5+ hours. Too make things worst she has been fighting a cold and is super whiny! We survived made it off the plane to be greeted by Patches two favorite cousins, Rose and Steph! They watched the kids while we waited for our luggage, which were the last 2 piece off the plane! But the carseat did not make it! We had to go to the Alaska office and eventually they found our carseat. Rose and Steph said they would see us back at Aunt Kate's and left. When we got to the rental car office we were informed that they had no cars! No cars??? Confirmed reservation and paid for but they have no cars! My husband ran out to all the agencies to find a car but no one had cars! We sat in the rental car agency for 2+ hours with luggage and kids everywhere!

Rose came back to pick up Patches and Ciara but could only get a few pieces of luggage. Rose and Steph are the brave ladies I know Ciara screamed the whole way--she is not used to being away from me! My husband's sister Maureen came after the rest of us. So in 2 cars and several hours we made it to my sister in law Kate's house. We were greeted by several family members which was a bit overwhelming but very nice! My husband has 6 sisters.

Maureen was so great to let us use her car, plan a trip to NY, wash clothes, bathe kids, and feed us! Thank you so much for your kindness! Kate let us take over her home which was very brave. Thank you! Rose and Steph were excellent caretakers for the kiddos! Nicholas was the bravest 12 year old boy, I know to push a stroller through NY crowds and on the train!

This trip was quite and adventure! I am so happy to be home. "There is no place like home!"