[BDBohnzie]

Been there, done that, was the mayor of that town for a while. I walk that tightrope that connects my wife and mother constantly, and for a while, I was walking while twirling blazing sticks of fire. But eventually I figured out the balance and haven't had too many issues since.

TMC - it's a losing battle. As it's been stated before, it's not because you are taking your family to the airport, it's because she had it all planned out that you guys were going to spend the weekend together or whatever it is that couples without children do (man how I long for those days sometimes), and this little cog burst her bubble. It could also be that she was going to surprise you with something? Either way, she's upset and somehow, you have to be the hero and make things right. And naturally, while you don't necessarily want to be, you have to be the voice of reason. You aren't going to tell your Mom no, but you want to make it up to your wife the best way you can, and let her know that.

She will get over it, but as you suggested (and continue to suggest), she could always come along and you guys could stay overnight somewhere (I assume you're taking the 'rents to Roanoke), perhaps somewhere you guys have never been before. Make the best of the situation.