Day One – Leaving Phoenix
03.22. 2009 0117 –Sunday-(Eastern Standard Time)

I apparently made the appropriate sacrifices to the Airline and Weather supreme beings. All flights on time. Luggage arrived as packed. No oversize seatmates. No crying children. I remembered all of the important things and made it all fit. Plus an extra bag to bring back the tourist loot.


I was prepared to be bored during the flight-packed a crossword puzzle book, a murder mystery, a “must read” classical novel (“The Picture of Dorian Gray”), and my laptop. But all I did was sleep. I’d been up since 1230 pm on Friday and worked third shift. Got off work and went to check in. Having the airport security badge is nice- straight to the head of the first class screening line.


Miami Airport – My feet and my camera bag. Waiting for the 757 to whisk me off to Puerto Rico

I did wake up for the island arrival. As the pilot began the final descent into San Luis Montano Airport, the shadow of the 757 was reflected on the woolly clouds and a pale rainbow encircled the shadow. Beautiful and magical. I considered it a good omen for the trip.

Finally relaxing at the Golden Sands Villa. Managed to navigate PR freeways and “calles” in the dark in the Yaris. Not going to mention how long it took me and how many wrong turns I made. The Villa is a subsidiary of the time share we inadvisably bought into a decade ago.. No properties were available (silly me making a spontaneous trip) so they suggested this place. It’s not bad. Not in the Cheena Hot Springs, Fairbank AK “rustic” category- (no phone, no TV)

Parking is interesting. It’s a construction site for a casino. The room is freezing. They want it kept at 65. And there was no way to adjust it. That’s like arctic cold. They advertised internet, but it’s not wireless, it’s through the TV. And $15 a night.

Can’t wait to really see the island in the daylight. Lots of strange birds in the darkness. And some new fragrant blossoms on the humid breeze.