There is “mist” in Chicago and thus my flight is delayed this morning (shocker).  That’s all right – I really do not mind airports, especially when the airlines give me the time to throw down a few vodka OJs.

Phoenix Airport isn’t the most ascetically pleasing place, but I typically fly out of the B terminal and there is a sports bar called Roadhouse 66 that I frequent when traveling through.

I just had déjà vu when I wrote that last sentence.  It is getting very weird – I think I’ve had déjà vu more times in the past year than I have in my entire life.  My roommate thinks I am a time traveler, yet I’m still banking on mental instability.

There is nothing better than meeting strangers at the airport, making a quick connection and sharing a few stories, then heading off in separate directions.  There is something so romantic about the whole concept that drives me crazy.  Most people don’t know how to connect with people they don’t know.  I can say that with confidence because for as many times as I’ve been able to strike up a conversation, there have been just as many situations where a  person’s “why the hell are you talking to me” attitude is highly transparent.  To those people, I usually try extra hard to force the conversation, if only to annoy them, if not enlighten.

Today I met an Indian man who is highly involved in the casino business.  I learned a lot about how these industries are helping to put children of poor Indian families through college, how the state of Michigan is really helping the Indian population to succeed and grow.  The man, very Southern and friendly, even trusted me enough to watch his bag when he went to the restroom.

Isn’t it weird that we find that surprising?  Did I just violate TSA law?

Ok… we’re supposed to brave the mist and board in 15 minutes…we shall see.