Birdwatcher,

It sounds like you're experiencing 'one of THOSE trips' where things just don't quite work the way you expected but I'm sure things will get better. We've had one or two over the years but the good ones always outweigh the NOT-so great ones.

At least your flights weren't delayed and you made it through C&I w/o any issues. And while I don't think you told us where you're staying, I guess the good news was there weren't any complications with your hotel accommodations. After all the other minor issues that would have been the icing on the cake for me.

It's gonna' get better and I'm sure we're all keeping our fingers crossed for you. At least I know I am!!