paris A I R show

It is very cool- the largest air show in the world. Jim got us passes and had us picked up at the hotel so we could see what he's been up to all week. It was Professional day, which he didn't know. They didn't allow any kids under 16. After passing the protest on the main street, we made it as far as the first security point before being turned away.

No worries- he called his new {French} friend who met him at another gate and walked us through after talking his way through. Helps to have someone who knows the language. Even he said everything in France is difficult. I'm seeing a common theme going on here in Europe.

We had a bit of time to walk around with Jim which was nice to cut through the barriers to avoid waiting in the lines. Kind of nice to know someone on the inside.

The US planes were mostly open for tours, and the crews were kind enough to let the boys get the VIP tour through them as well sitting in each cock-pit at the controls- the C-5 {huge}, C-17, C-130, and the Chinook helicopter. The C-5 was a little too high for me- Justin and Ty both were able to stick their head out the top.

There is also a Customs and Borders patrol plane here {all remote control} that the boys got to play with the simulator. Kind of cool.

I've never been too excited about Air Shows. In Anchorage, they come through every year it seems. My dad loves them, so it was the cool grandpa thing to take Justin and Ty when they were younger.

They both have very fond Grandpa memories and still enjoyed it. Dad- you would have loved this one. I think your son has a hat for you! xo