Or, in our case, it begins with Amtrak baggage clerks (crusty Boston guys with soft hearts) taking compassion on this mom and son team, sending us to the First Class lounge.   Sam is pleased with the free newspapers, soda and treats. I'm loving the free wifi (not sure I'll have that after this) and the fact that they will escort us over to board 15 minutes before every one else loads (you know, women and children first).

So far, so good.