Leaving is more than just emotionally hard

If anyone ever tells you to take a shuttle to the airport instead of a taxi (or the subway for that matter), yell a loud and emphatic NO in their face. Thinking we were clever, and recognising that there was no way Timon could carry all our luggage on the subway, we booked a shuttle to JFK on the afternoon of the 24th. The blue mini-van was about $20 cheaper than a taxi and it feels a little fancier. We found someone from the landlord office, handed back our keys, signed some paperwork, dragged the bags down to the street and waited - in the rain. 20 minutes later we were snug in the back of the shuttle and on our way. Hands were clasped and tears were threatening but mostly I felt relieved that we were starting the journey. 2 and a half hours later and any relief I felt had died long ago.

Shuttles are the worst! Firstly the weather was terrible (NY was sad we were leaving) and the rain made everyone drive like bigger lunatics. Secondly there is a mad amount of construction going on over the east side so we ended up driving in circles. Thirdly some idiot didn't heed the advice to be on the curb ready and waiting so our driver went in search. When finally we left Manhattan we ended up driving to JFK via La Guardia (not the most direct route!) and then around and around the airport dropping people off at various gates in 8 terminals. Needless to say Timon and I were last.

With our anticipated 3 hour lead reduced to 30 minutes, T was pretty grouchy when it turned out we couldn't sit together. On top of that (but not unexpectedly) we were stuck with a hefty overweight baggage fee. Joy of joys. We found some seats at the gate and waited...and waited. Delayed! Someone does not want us to leave this mighty city. When we finally boarded the plane a lovely man swapped seats with me so I could sit next to Timon. The flight was unremarkable, no food was provided and we arrived in Salt Lake City an hour late, at around 1am.