We were the first plane to leave Seattle for Denver in three days, and everyone clapped when we finally lifted off. We had about eight minutes to make our connection (one of the first planes to _leave_ Denver), so I didn't get a chance to see much. The woman next to me on the plane said it took her three hours to get through security in Denver, and I heard on the radio today that they won't even let you into the airport unless you have a confirmed flight. On our run to the second plane we passed dozens of people sleeping, mid-afternoon, on airport-provided cots.

Yuck.

Have a great Christmas! Please give my regards to your family.