Well, after 1 year of thinking and planning for this trip, it has finally begun. I am in DC now waiting for my flight to Qatar. It was hard saying goodbye to Michelle, Aris, and Athan, but I know they will be fine. The boys were really wanting to come with me…but not Michelle:-). Next time. Off to meet my friend John Carney and crew and begin the real leg of the trip. It begins with a 15 hour flight to Doha, Qatar. And then a 10 hour layover. Ouch.