Suprise/Unexpected Visit to MN for Dad's 60th Bday

October 30th - Nov. 2nd, 2008

When I got to the Seattle airport on the 30th to fly back to Guatemala they informed me my flight was cancelled and there was no way they could get me back to Guate before the evening of the 31st. I was very frustrated because I needed to get back for work on the 31st because of numerous events that were happening on campus. However, the American Airlines employees were very sympathetic and did try everything to get me back to Guate. Once I realized it was hopeless I asked them if they could get me to Minnesota for the weekend and then back to Guate from MN on Sunday. I had to pay a small amount but they made it happen.

I arrived in Minneapolis Thursday night, got a rental car and drove to my sister Kaija's house. I arrived at her house at 11:30pm. She didn't know I was coming! I rang their doorbell, no answer, rang it again, Jerry (her husband) opened their window and shouted, "Whose there?" I said, "Kari"

"Harry who?"

"Kari Johnson!"

"Kari Johnson, whose that?"

"Uh, your sister in-law!"

He then turned and said to Kaija, "is she supposed to be here?"

Needless to say they were both confused but were happy to see me.

The next day we drove to my parents and Kirsti's house. I was able to surprise a lot more of my family. They never expected me to be there.

Friday night my parents house was full of relatives for my Dad's birthday party. Some of these relatives I hadn't seen in years. It was great to see everyone!

On Saturday we all went to Kirsti and Ryan's house for the party. It was a great event.

I had to leave very early Sunday morning for Minneapolis. I missed my sister Kaija's babyshower but at least I got to see her right before it.

What a great unexpected trip home. Thank-you American Airlines!