There is now a Maudie’s in the Austin airport. I got dinner there while I waited for my flight – 1 crispy chicken taco and a side of rice and beans. It cost me $3.62. I was so shocked by how cheap it was I asked the girl at the register if she got my whole order on the ticket. She said “yeah” and read my order back to me. Three dollars. And sixty-two cents. This is why I love Maudie’s.

Trying to find a seat in the dining area of the Austin airport makes me feel like I’m in junior high all over again. Many of the airports I’ve been to have 1-2 tables huddled together to create more private seating areas for individuals and small groups. At ABIA they have long rows of square metal tables lining restaurant row. After picking up my cheap (and delicious) meal, I turned around to look for a spot and my stomach dropped a few inches. There were no completely empty tables, which meant I was going to have to ask someone if I could sit next to them. And suddenly, there I am, 12 years old but looking 9, with a horrible perm and dorky round glasses, wondering where I can sit and not be completely rejected. I’m jolted back into my present adulthood by a rather large man who bumps my backpack, and I settle on an older woman sitting by herself eating a slice of pizza. I figure a sweet old lady won’t reject me. Until I sit down and her husband walks up and takes the chair right next to me. Great. Now I’m the awkward 3rd wheel invading their private little meal. Oh well. I’m already sitting, so I scarf down my meal and decide to head over to the Earl Campbell Sports Bar (yes, horribly kitchy) for a vacation inaugurating drink. I order a gin and tonic with a splash of grenadine, and settle in to enjoy a few minutes by myself.

Vacation has officially started.