Top 5 Things to Do When You're Flight Is Cancelled (and you're travelling with kids)

We were on our way to my brothers wedding today when our flight was cancelled. It is just a 1 hour domestic flight. I wish we could just drive there but the drive would take 3 days. Normally, cancelled flights don't faze me. I travel for work very often so I just go home and reschedule a flight.

Things change when traveling with 2 children under the age of 3.

I've learned a few things along the way, let me share them with you:

1.  Go straight to the rebooking counter
While other passengers are busy yelling and standing around getting mad or feeling lost, get your bearings and quickly go to the rebooking counter. That would give you first dibs on the next available seats and there's still no line to contend with. It helps to know your options too - can you be rebooked on a different carrier with a better schedule? Should you push for a free hotel stay if you live too far from the airport?

2. Don't bother yelling
I know it would be so nice to have someone to vent to. Yes, we have to open up the house, find something to cook for the kids, clean up and repack but there really isn't much choice. Our whole vacation turned upside down. It would be better to write a strong letter to the company afterwards... or post feedback on the web. I've experienced being the one yelled at as I work in tourism too. Trust me, it doesn't make the situation any better. Plus, you wouldn't want your kids to turn to yelling when stressed right? Anyway, the person you yelled at wouldn't pass on that feedback to his bosses.

3. Make sure there's a snack and enough bottles in your carry-on
Airplanes are late. Airplanes get cancelled. A hungry, cranky baby and toddler while you juggle things and lines are things mommy nightmares are made off. And make sure the snacks aren't sugary. I usually pack yoghurt for my daughter. (though I admit I bring mini-Oreos for emergencies too)

4. Lighten up on the rituals
Toothbrush, pajama... I usually bend rules when we get home. I'm tired. I'm cranky. My daughter's even more tired and cranky - plus she doesn't understand how we were supposed to meet Daddy in the province today and why are we back home - without Dad at that. I let things slide. She's probably more upset than I am.

5. Just let go
The plan didn't leave. There's no way for me to drive that plane. I can't do anything. Yes I am majorly irritated how our whole day preparing for the trip (yes, it took the whole day... there are 2 children and myself to pack for, get dressed, fed and out the door)- a good 4 hours waiting in the airport, waiting IN the plane, deplaning, getting the luggage, getting rebooked and going home only to repeat the next day. But it is what it is. Hazards of travel.

So tomorrow, I will wake up at 300am for a 530am flight. I hope the plane leaves with us in it and arrives safely. I'm not sure I can write a calm part II to this post if it's cancelled again.

I heart churros con chocolate

I'm happy my 2 children share with me a love for churros con chocolate from Dulcinea. It's really my go to merienda.

I remember planning who will line up for it during Dia de Hispanidad (depending on whose class gets to go on recess first). It's also my treat for going to Simbang Gabi.

Nothing beats the warm crunchy churro and the super thick sweet-bitter chocolate. Yummy.