Flying is brutal. I do a lot of it but all is worth it to be with your loved ones. Have a great trip!!

Depending upon your age and physical condition, you may be able to get boarded ahead of others.
(I'm 71 and disabled, using a cane)

I quit flying some years ago. Non-stop Albuquerque to San Diego (only place I want to visit folks) is on Southwest.
The plane was so full it was ridiculous. Seriously packed in like sardines, cramped between two other passengers the whole trip.

Now I pay more, and take longer, via Amtrak.

Again, good luck and hope all goes well for you.

Haven't flown in quite a few years. Took the train down last time, but I figure 36 hours one way for a weekend is a bit much.

Not sure what kind of tickets I'll get yet, but we'll see. Seattle to LA, so it's about a 3 hour flight. Have to dial in my boot camp mentality. You know, I can put up with almost anything for a limited period of time.

One of my sons and my brother flew in to see me last week. They did not seem as upset with TSA as I would be, if I still flew. Guess they got used to it.

so I'm not really familiar with current procedures. I figure if I dress right it won't be too bad.

I'm pretty patient about shit like that, though, so we'll see.

good luck, and have a wonderful time.