…and yet so far. I got to the airport just in time to watch my flight leave without me.

The plane was still at the gate when I arrived, but “regulations” prevented them from opening the door they’d just closed for the passenger they’d waited for before closing it. Stupid. So I watched through the window as it sat there for another five minutes before pushing back and taxiing out to the runway for takeoff. So I took the next flight and made it to Fresno two hours later. Woo.

Of course at this point you’re wondering, “Hey Chuck, where’s the taxi picture?” Why, it’s right here:

My driver, Gevork, assured me that I did not need help.

And of course you’re wondering what the view out my hotel window is. Well, it’s dark outside right now so it’s difficult to see much of anything, but I think there’s enough light for you to make out the friggin’ VOLLEYBALL GAME going on right outside my window:

I especially liked all the times my side’s defense sucked and the other team was able to spike the ball against my wall. That was grreeaatt.

Fresno does have its bright side, though: One casino downtown and two others within a 30 minute drive. This trip might not be so bad after all.