The Netherlands announced that it will begin using full body scanners for flights heading to the USA. Finally, Americans are talking about travel safety again!

The USA had not wanted the scanners because of privacy concerns. As a traveler, I would rather be safe, and I would wonder about people who would object to this.....I opted for the body scan at an airport, and it was much faster than the traditional lines.

  I found a company that makes these scanners and you can read about them at dsxray.com. (If the link doesn't work, copy and paste www.dsxray.com into your browser.) They make lots of cool stuff..

 We all are responsible for our own safety. Look at the people around you; count the seats to the exit row. Use your row as number 1, and count how many to the exit.  Count both ways, to the front and the rear of the aircraft. If the plane is dark, at least you can touch the seats and feel your way.

One of the items that is always in the outside pocket of my carry-on are large plastic  tie wraps.  They make great handcuffs! If someone needs to be restrained and I am on that flight they will be restrained. I found mine at an auto parts store. Consider yourself deputized when you are traveling.  Make it as safe as you can.

Blue skies and tailwinds,

Bev and Chris

A special thanks to June and Wendy our web wonders for getting the hyperlink to work! You can find them at bwyse.com.......they have been our web angels!

Holiday travel  with kids can be stressful.  Here are our tips:

• Know TSA guidelines  their web site is http://TSA.gov
• Flights can be delayed, bring snacks, enough to handle an airport delay. Your water bottles must be empty when you pass screening. Fill them in the water fountain, after you pass security. There are nice individual packets you can add to the water. They will fit nicely in your Travel Rx Bag!
• Something to do for the kids, quiet activities are appreciated.  More about kids below!
• Have plenty of reading material
• You'll be asked for ID several times. Consider one of the ID holders you can wear around your neck. You won't be reaching in your bag so much.
• No Wrapped Gifts!  Take gift bags and tissue paper with you
• Program airline, car rental, hotel numbers, doctors, local 24 hour nurse line, into your cell phone, that you have charged before you leave. 
• Carry copies of itinerary, airline, car and hotel information with you. It will fit nicely in your Travel Rx Bag!
• Arrive early.  Peak travel times can increase the time it takes to get thought security checkpoints!

                                                        KIDS                

• Always pack more than you think you'll need! Double up on diapers, wipes, changing pads. If you use a pacifier, take extra!Organize before you go.
• Allow children to be a part of packing toys and clothes that will go with them. Their choices will help you talk with them about the trip, what you plan to do.  
• For long, or overnight flights. Plan to have a  favortie sleep/comfort item with the carry on.
• Write down dosing information. You need to know the child's weight to give medication. Keep this information with you.
• It will fit in the zipper part of your Travel Rx Bag!
• For long or overnight trips, set the mood for sleep with sleep. Blankets and books quiet toys.
• Remember to nurse your baby, or have your child drink during take-off and landing
• Check out ear-planes. They can be used more than one time. You can read about them on line and find them in most local drug stores. They come in different sizes. A drug free way to provide comfort during flights..
• When you get to the security gate area, grab enough or more bins than you will need.  It is easier to hand them back empty, than to get more.    Have 1 adult go through first, then the children then the last adult.  

Have fun, and be safe!

Blue skies and tailwinds,

Chris and Bev