Back in Tampa

We arrived back in Tampa early this evening via Philadelphia from Pittsburgh. It was quite a change getting off the jet in leather jackets and scarves to temps in the 80’s. Once we got the suitcase from baggage we hopped on the monorail to long term parking garage. Little did I know that there are six huge areas, each named after a famous aviator. All I knew that were were on the second floor in section 203. I had left the ticket inside the truck so I wouldn’t replace it. I never stopped to check the name of our area. Fortunately I remember the numbers being brown and saw on the map that the parking areas were color coordinated. I suggested we try the Lindberg garage as it was colored brown on the map. Onto the monorail stepped a huge, well dressed man. I caught him sitting down and didn’t pay much attention until it was almost time to deboard. As our eyes met, I said to him, “sir, you remind me so much of Doug Williams, the quarterback of Tampa Bay and the Washington Redskins, ”  He extended his huge hand to shake mine and said, “you’re right, that’s me.” My mind is still working well. Doug Williams was the MVP in Super Bowl XXII, back in 1988, almost 22 years ago. Mr. Williams is to date the only African-American quarterback to win a Super Bowl.

Then it was on to pick up Brutus at the pet hotel. Not only does this concept still boggle my mind but when we were leaving, they gave us his report card, which they called his “progress report”. This was all deja vu to my career in education. I couldn’t help but laugh. Here it is, just like in elementary school. A report card for our dog. I must be a dinosaur.

The wedding reception was a glorious affair and my sister Lisa and brother-in-law, Kevin put on quite a gala affair.

The newlyweds seem blissful. It was great to spend time with family and friends, spending two nights with our best friends from near Pittsburgh. Chris and Jay couldn’t have made us feel more at home, stocking their pantry to the gills with goodies and munchies for our stay.Chris has always made it tough when visiting by putting more food in you than one could imagine. Staying here a couple of days is not good for the waistline. But no one can make you feel more comfortable. It was a great trip, and the catching up was indescribable but leaving temperatures in the 20’s wasn’t difficult at all. Tomorrow we’ll get back into our daily routine and await friends from the summer past.