By now, my purse was full of plane souvenirs for her scrapbook.

A fast 1-1/2 hours later, we were in Frankfurt. Took the free shuttle to the Ibis Hotel (the cheapest available with free airport transportation at this time) and she really liked the room. I hadn't realized her doubts about hotel rooms when I had explained to her that we stay at whatever inexpensive hotel is available. Fast showers and bed in prep for getting up 4-5 hours from now. It so happened that Europe was "springing" their clocks ahead tonight. The first Ibis shuttle bus to the airport was at 5:15 and that's the one we had to be on for a 8:10 am flight to Chicago.

Up early, to airport, into Lufthansa lounge where Sarah quickly chowed down on three small rolls with cream cheese and Diet Cokes. SUGGESTION: ex-Marine and I stick to United (through thick and thin) because of the perks available when you fly lots of miles, e.g. using airline lounges on international trips. Try and make it a point to stick to one airline for the same benefits.

Our United flight was late arriving in Frnkfurt and late departing. This time, I sat with Sarah in Business Class for the 1st half of the flight and sent "Grandpa" back to Economy. The flight was completely sold out in Economy and no two seats for him.

Sarah and I watched "Alvin and the Chipmunks" (my idea of purgatory) and she was thrilled by the options for movies and music. What is there not to like about Business Class? There is one thing...don't ever order a Vegetarian Option on United. They are awful. Bring your own food or deal with what they give you by picking out the parts you don't like. There is usually a pasta choice, even in Economy.

A fast 8-1/2 hour flight back, more stamps in Sarah's passport. She now has stamps from Italy, Germany and re-eintry into the U.S. Suitcases materialized and the all too brief three days in Rome was over. My thoughts and suggestions for taking children and/or teenagers anywhere....

All - Inclusive Vacations! Flight + 4 Nights Hotel From $718