After a lot of planning, nervousness and travelling, I'm finally in Austin and settled into my hotel room. It's nice to finally be here at the National Convention.
Today has been a whirlwind of activity, and it's sure to be just the beginning. And I thought I was getting here early to relax a little! I got to Dallas to the airport just fine, and it was just a short 29-minute flight to Austin. I sat next to the nicest lady. Her white hair reminded me of a nearly-spent dandelion, and she was just as beautiful as a flower. I helped her with her overhead luggage, and her non-stop gratitude nearly made me blush. I could tell by her struggle with the seatbelt that she doesn't fly much (I had the same troubles).
When we got to Austin, I was elated to see these big banners welcoming us in the airport! I thought I was seeing things! I felt quite honored. I took the photo above from the escalator from the terminal into the baggage claim area. I hitched a short shuttle ride to our hotel in the downtown area, and met a fellow delegate from New Mexico on the same bus. We told our driver all about Woodmen, how it's more than just life insurance, it's like a second family. I could tell he was impressed.
I checked into my room, and then it was off to explore Sixth Street a little, and eat some Tex-Mex food. I caught up with a few more Woodmen members in the lobby, and now I'm simply exhausted. But I'm ready to see what adventures await me tomorrow. It should be a more somber day, with the Memorial Service and all. I'm looking forward to honoring those who came before us. Good night, y'all!
Welcome to Austin! I was so pleased to have had some great people from your group on our 90 minute tour of Austin today. (Austin Overtures!) While here - why not join us for our tour in our air conditioned vans? We run our tours out of the Visitor Center, and you can make on-line reservations at our web site: www.austinovertures.com, or by calling the Austin Visitors Center at (512) 478-0098.
Maggie Olmstead (tour guide)
Posted by: Maggie Olmstead | 07/26/2009 at 06:51 PM