Dunnski's Sunday Journey

I was in Chicago this weekend to catch the Cubs with my boys. Left Sunday's game a bit early to head back home. Here's what happened:

Good news: I get to Chinatown and pick up some sweet-ass Cubs hats, 4 for 10 bucks. Great souvenirs for the kiddies.
Bad news: It's still really hot and the walk back to the hotel almost kills me.

Good news: I get to the airport about 2 hours before my flight (via affordable public transportation) - plenty of time to grab a bite and catch my plane.
Bad news: I learn from the monitor inside the terminal that my 8:50 flight is leaving at 9:50. I say bad words.

Good news: There's an earlier flight that has not yet left Midway.
Bad news: It is presently boarding.

Good news: I've got 15 minutes to get to the gate, and Midway is not that big.
Bad news: I check with the closest agent first (before making that trek) and she says the plane is full. But I should check anyway. Pointless, I say to myself.

Good news: When I get to the gate the plane is still there and people are still in line to board.
Bad news: I see 4 names on the stand-by sheet at the desk.

Good news: The Smith party of 3 does not answer their page! I'm in!
Bad news: I'm the last one on the plane, assuring me a crappy seat.

Good news: The last seat is in an exit row!
Bad news: Between two really large women who weren't planning on any company.

Good news: We leave a few minutes late, but still hours ahead of my original (and delayed) flight.
Bad news: My vacation is over.