Soaring high in the sky and the only thing going through my mind is trying to leave the troubles that are in New Jersey and Raleigh behind and focus on the important three weeks ahead: world championships and Duel in the Pool.
As I listen to my iPod, T.I. blaring in my ears, I daydream of my upcoming swims. I begin to feel tired as I release all of the stresses. My body begins to loosen on the way to Chicago. Soon I feel a thump on my left shoulder. It’s a small child, who was moments earlier playing with his PSP had fallen asleep on my arm. I look at his mother who silently says, “Sorry” and attempts to move her son. I whisper back, “It is OK.” I was feeling tired also and fell asleep.

The flight to San Fran seemed to be standard. I am flying in the economy section. YES! Legroom — this will help with added comfort. I fall asleep again. Man, I was tired. Arriving in San Fran was a great feeling. I’m finally going to see some of my friends on the national team.

As I exit the plane my coach and I are met by some swim managers and walk to the new gate for Melbourne. We soon learn that the team is split with some people leaving from Los Angeles and others from San Fran. Although there are only a few of us now, I still felt the relief that the only thing I need to think about was swimming fast.Ticket 41C — hmmm that is interesting, that is my Dad’s basketball jersey number and the letter is the first letter of my name. A sigh of relief leaves my lips as I feel comfort as I board the plane. My pops “is looking out for me.” As I sit down, I get myself comfortable but also ready to move for anyone in my row. I am sitting in the aisle. Moments pass and I finally hear the flight attendant say, “All electronics are now to be turned off because the cabin door is closed.” Wide-eyed I look to my left and the entire row is empty. JACKPOT. I guess Pops is looking out because I scored the whole row to myself for the 14 hour flight. I lie down and continue to visualize my races as I drift off to sleep.

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