Car is packed, ready to roll out… two weeks worth of stuff. One single bag contains everything Kyle and I need; cheers to traveling with children!
We scheduled an early flight to O’Hare so we would have extra time for the transfer from the Domestic terminal to International – turns out the ANA counter is closed until 14:30. We spend an extra hour waiting in the un-moving line instead of eating. But Kyle takes the the kids to run around while I keep our place in line, because she is awesome.
We finally board the 777-300, after a last-minute gate change.
The flight was… well:
First off, we were given some snacks labeled “rice crackers”. About halfway through the bag I realize they taste a bit fishy; sure enough, bonito and (oh boy, good thing we brought an Epi-pen) “may contain traces of crustaceans”. I immediately halt Kyle from eating any more than she already has – just about an hour into our vacation and the food is already a thing.
Then dinner.
We informed the flight staff of Kyle’s shellfish allergy, and the response was “it is ok, no shellfish. Just shrimp and crab”. Language is a funny thing.
(*Note: I want to acknowledge this situation was completely my fault. Not only did I fail to notify ANA about the vegetarian restriction/allergy in advance, but I also ignorantly speak no Japanese. Lesson learned- they were incredible with accommodation on the return flight.)
Moving on to bedtime. Even though Thing 1 has flown to NYC, Grand Cayman, Chicago, Seattle, Paris, and London, he suffered air sickness for the first time ever – after 8 hours into the flight. Only only 5 more to go! I cannot speak more highly of the ANA flight staff; our many thanks for all your help.
13 hours 40 mins, numerous plastic bags stuffed with clothes/pillows covered in vomit, and about 20 wipes later, we arrived.
“Elsa” (he has many names, and it changes throughout each day) is feeling +100% since touching down, so we know it’s not actual sickness. That, at least. Off we go!
The drive is a scenic tour of Tokyo at night, but “Airplane” is more enthralled with a cement mixer and red brake lights.
Check-in. Shower. Bed. We have arrived.
Travels with Larson and Co 