Day 3 pre-ride in San Diego

Saturday morning in San Diego-March 8

Getting ready for any activity, being outside, especially in dry climates requires drinking a lot of water, hydration. It's good they say for flying. On my 6 trips to visit in Afghanistan, I was constantly told to hydrate, hydrate. Yet, there is a natural conclusion resulting from hydration. Once such conclusion in Afghanistan occurred while we were visiting a remote village. When I inquired as to the local facilities, if any, I was taken in a tiny opening to a space surrounded by concrete, blast walls. In this are was several pipes, sticking moderately out of the ground. It worked fine.

On the flight out yesterday, another interesting hydration moment occurred. It was a turbulent flight, so when the seat belt light FINALLY  was turned off, I jumped from my seat, (which was seat 2A, Delta had chosen to upgrade me, thank you Delta), and moved quickly to the closest restroom, which was next to the cockpit door.  I was prepared to elbow anyone daring to get in my way, (apparently no one else was hydrating and staring at the light like I was), except for the uniformed guy standing beside the door that was looking, no drilling a glare to my soul, at me and said" don't come any closer!". Did I mention the serving cart blocking the aisle that this giant was standing behind?

I, needless to say, forgot hydration and needless to say, came no closer. I then realized that it was the pilot and that I had startled him with the fleet afoot move I had made just as he excited the cockpit. The stewardess apologized, the pilot smiled upon leaving the restroom, I would have to at one time, now forgotten, but they were just being careful.

I told them not to worry, that I have been told before not to come any closer, just not by such a voice of authority.