Maddie's Big Adventure

As some of you know, Maddie recently returned from a 10 day trip to visit her Aunt Melinda in Washington, D.C. Maddie has been saving money for 2 years to buy a plane ticket. This was her first experience flying alone and going on an adventure all by herself. Her plans for the trip were as varied as the moods are for a 13 year-old. By priority, she wanted to visit the Holocaust Museum, the Smithsonian, Carlo's Bake Shop (from the television show Cake Boss), and F.A.O. Schwartz (for the big piano).

I wanted Maddie to write the journaling for this blog post but she was tired and succinct. "It was hot, humid, and a lot of fun." As you can see, a lot of the enjoyment came with food. They cooked lobster tails and indulged in junk food. Maddie was so excited to call me the day they had french fries and pudding for lunch. She over-indulged on the bake shop goodies and called me crying when she had an upset stomach.

Maddie happened to arrive while Trent and Natalie were in D.C. for the Subway convention so she got to spend an afternoon with them. She and Keira had a fabulous time together. I love the photo of them reading the paper. Melinda let Maddie raid her closet and model in her Italian shoes. Melinda was a spectacular host and tour guide. Maddie loved the trip and it was a wonderful experience for her to see historic sites, wander through the MOMA, see the painting Starry Starry Night, take a boat ride in Central Park, text message her mom as she traveled through the Lincoln Tunnel, etc. It was a trip that I'm sure she'll never forget. Thanks Melinda!