United Kingdom 2015
  
 

Day 01

September 15

 
  I've diligently studied the new airline's opportunities to relieve me of extra cash concerning my baggage for this trip. It used be that you got two checked bags for free if you were traveling to Europe. Now Delta wants an extra $100 each way for the second bag. So I've got my stuff down to the minimum as the ticket is expensive enough. After attending a seminar today, I'm finally at the airport, with my truck safely parked and locked, waiting on the bus to take me to the main terminal.  
   
  I'm early, but I'd rather be early than late for a flight. As it turns out, the short hop from Nashville to Atlanta is packed and there is limited overhead storage for carryon. When the plea comes out for anyone that would like to check their carryon, I hesitate. It contains my helmet and I'm a bit concerned it will be damaged if it travels as checked luggage. But since they are willing to check it all the way to London for free - which is a $100 'contribution' on their part - I go for it. That will be one less thing I have to fool with getting through Atlanta to the international terminal. I'm just left with my laptop bag which has all my electronics, so I'm good. The flight from Nashville to Atlanta is only 35 minutes in length so we don't even get up to cruising altitude. I finally figure out my gate for the London leg and deposit myself there with plenty of time. Going out, I always try to schedule at least a two hour layover so my luggage has a decent chance of making it along with me.  
   
  The bird finally arrives that will be my home for the next seven to eight hours.  
   
  Soon enough, we are herded down the cattle ramp and into the tin house with the small seats.  
   
  This flight is fairly full, so there will not be much legroom as usual. My plan is to enjoy the fine airline cuisine and then grab as much sleep as I can. I've learned if I can stay up the next day until local 'bedtime', my body clock somewhat adjusts to the new time zone.  
   
  Supper is served and it's not bad for what it is. The nice thing about tomorrow is I have all day to get to the hotel as I decided to not pick up the bike until the following day. I check the flight status one more time before I try to rest.  
   
  I contort myself as best I can in the little space that I have, trying to find a place for my long legs. I've learned that window seats are a little better for sleeping as you have the curve of the airplane body to sort of put the pillow in. Also, my left shoulder does not get abused by the refreshment cart or passing strangers. Hopefully, I'll get enough rest that I am somewhat functional when I hit the ground in London tomorrow.