Then it begins. I open my eyes and check that all my stuff is where I left it. Bag…check. Magazines… check. Snacks… check. Binoculars… WHERE ARE MY BINOCULARS!!!

My eyes search frantically while my arms move on their own, digging through the things that have accumulated all around me on this trip. I NEED MY BINOCULARS!!! They are my one physical connection to you, Dad. I can’t lose them.

Then I see the strap. Peeking out from behind Charlie’s back. I glare directly in her eyes, but she’s asleep… or at least pretending to be. Either way, she's about to get a rude awakening!!!