Firsts

Dear Addelyn,
This past weekend contained a few firsts for you. You took your first plane ride. You ventured across state lines for the first time. You met a whole group of new people, and spent a weekend with a girl your age (actually 6 months older).
Side note: spending such time with a girl is a first because on a regular basis you are playing with boys, as we don't know many girls your age.
Jake has friends that live in Denver, Colorado. A few months ago he asked if we wanted to join him to visit them for a weekend. I hesitated, and contemplated whether or not we should go. I was worried about the plane ride, about staying with people you and I barely know, if it would be a good experience for you, and if Jake and I were ready to take such a trip together with you. I worried about so many unnecessary things (which isn't abnormal for me). The worry was unnecessary because you had a great time! Addy, you were such a trooper!
You were so excited to simply arrive at the airport. Jake and I spent the hour waiting to board chasing you around the terminal. I wanted you to exert as much energy as possible before boarding so you could get your nap in on the plane. That didn't happen. You had a window seat all to your self which provided entertainment in the form of buckling and unbuckling your own seat belt and opening and shutting your own window. When the plane took off the feeling of unease I got in the pit of my stomach was matched only by your true excitement as you looked to me with wide eyes waving your hands in exhilaration. Although I brought a computer notebook, headphones, excessive snacks, a baby doll, a pretend doctor kit, stuffed animals and whoppers (for emergencies only) you were happy trading laps and watching the airplane tv without sound. The plane landed in Denver just as you fell asleep in Jake's lap. He carried you sleeping on his shoulder to baggage claim and beyond.

We were picked up by two of Jake's closest friends and taken to the Anderson's house. You immediately made yourself at home exploring their playroom and back deck. Reese, their 2 1/2 year old little girl, was taking a nap when we arrived. When she awoke and was brought to the back patio to meet you, you greeted her with "this is my porch". Although a rocky start, the two of you hit it off. You played so well with her and mimicked her every move.

 

You and I went with the girls to an art walk in a little area called Tennyson, where we took in a few art galleries, ate from a food truck and played relentlessly at a neighborhood playground.

We also took a day trip to Boulder, Colorado where we walked the outdoor mall, stopping to play on statues and watch street performers.

And, we spent a day inside (due to rain) and painted our toenails (well, you napped and I painted my toenails), and made pizza for dinner.

Finally, we explored downtown Denver, eating at a local café and exploring the 16th street mall.

We had a great time. We met new people, we experienced new things, we laughed a lot, and loved a lot. I could not have been more proud to be your mother. You used your manners, adapted to any situation, and let me lug you around everywhere. I would be lying to say that there were not meltdown moments, but you are two, and they were minimal.
Thank you for being such a trooper. Thank you for listening. Thank you for trusting me and for trusting Jake. This trip is the first of many.
I can't wait to see what all our future has in store.
I love you Addelyn, and am so very proud of you,
Momma