After a brief conversation with Carlos at the counter I learn there is not another flight to Richmond today, but he could get me to Norfolk. If I am willing to do this he can give me a round trip ticket anywhere AirTran or Southwest flies in the next year. Norfolk is not that much further from Fort Lee – sounds like a good deal for me! Plus, I feel so good when the father who had forgotten to check in for the flight  thanks me as he stands holding his little girls hand wandering if they are going to make this flight. I can hang out at the airport much easier than they would be able to.