Galley Gossip: A question about why I'm based in New York when I live in California {Gadling}

Jan 18th 2009 1:04PM Well, I commuted too. Just like you I was based in NYC right out of training, married, older, and on reserve. so, was only home for 8-9 days a month, and not always all at once. I couldn't wait to transfer out. I got my 1st transfer to SLC, and was there for about 6 months. And finally got a transfer to LAX where I lived. I was still on reserve, but didn't care-I was home. I finally became a lineholder and was very happy. Until 9/11 then the airline I worked for downsized LAX and I was sent back to NYC, back on reserve, and back to commuting. I had a pretty nice crashpad, but I was back to being home only 8-9 days a month, and I was 10 years older-let's just say in my 50's and living like a 20 something was supposed to live.
After 18 months of this, I took early retirement and haven't looked back. I do miss flying and all my friends, but overall my life is richer and I get to spend time with my husband and grown kids.
Flying is lifestyle not just a job.