The year is just about done for, so it’s time to look at how much flying we all did. My two trips across the pond helped to offset the lack of flying toward the end of the year. What did your year look like?

Miles: 38,310 (34,202 last year)
Segments: 26 (26)
New Aircraft: Bombardier Q400
New Airlines: Allegiant, Spirit
New Airports: Kelowna (BC), London/City, Shannon
Most Common Aircraft: A320 (7 flights)
Most Common Airline: US Airways/JetBlue (5 segments each)
Most Common Airport: Long Beach (6 dep/3 arr)
Most Common Non-Directional Route: Long Beach – Phoenix (3)

Pack patience for air travel amateurs – CNN Out of the Office
’tis the season for amateur travelers to come out of the woodwork. Here are some thoughts on how business travelers can navigate it.

In the Trenches: Recognizing Our Own Recognition – Intuit Small Business Blog
Just talking a little bit more about how to deal with getting recognized as a Top Travel Specialist by Conde Nast.

Virgin America dogged by reservations glitches – USA Today Today in the Sky
Ben got into some more detail about the Virgin America reservation system problems and he cited my post on the subject.

Tech tames travel’s travails – The Detroit News
A brief mention at the end about Cranky Concierge. Though we don’t actually have an app.

Alaska Airlines Menu Tasting Was Eye-Opening – Conde Nast Daily Traveler
A different look at my visit to the Alaska Air kitchens this week.

In the Trenches: What to Give Employees for the Holidays? – Intuit Small Business Blog
It’s holiday time, and that means it’s time to figure out the best gift to give to those who contribute to the success of the business. But what should it be?

Surviving the holiday travel season Cranky style – The Madeleine Brand Show on KPCC
I had a fun chat with Madeleine about airplane etiquette. You can listen here.

If you’re wondering where my CNN column has gone, it hasn’t disappeared. I’m just going to be writing a little less frequently. The next one will go up on Monday, and as always, will be linked to from here. I’m also hoping to have something new to report in the next two weeks.

In the Trenches: Standing in the Customers’ Shoes – Intuit Small Business Blog
It’s never fun to get stuck, but my experience this week has been great for helping me relate to clients.

In the Trenches: Repeat Clients – Intuit Small Business Blog
There’s nothing better than having repeat clients, so I’m always trying to figure out the best way to increase that business.

United, American airlines challenge proposed new fees (poll) – Cleveland Plain Dealer
I’ll be writing more about proposed aviation taxes next week, but here’s a preview of my thoughts (with a very non-elegant quote).