Kate in Chicago

Miss Kate is a brave and adventurous little traveler. She had a great time in Chicago with Grandma Judd and her cousins. Of course, the highlight was hanging out with Abby and being there for her birthday. Kate also loved the aquarium in Chicago and has talked about the beluga whale she saw several times. Her souvenir from the trip is a stuffed otter from the aquarium. Her name is Otto.

Abby got a look-a-like American Girl Doll for her birthday and Kate was there as the doll and all her look-a-likeness was created.
Although this is not Kate's first flight, it's the first she'll have in her memory. Hence, the obligatory picture in front (or is it behind?) the cockpit with the pilots. On the way to Chicago, my mom said that Kate asked a lot of questions about airport procedure, where the luggage went, the plane, etc. On the way home, my mom said that Kate led the way through check-in and security as well as any seasoned traveler.
Tuesday: Flight left in the morning. James, Robert, and I dropped off Kate and Grandma. Kate asked lots of questions about baggage check, security, and the plane. Kate and Abby decorated cookies and started a week of play together.Wednesday: Abby stayed home from school to play with Kate. They played with Polly Pockets, and were pretty much just joined at the hip. They chatted nonstop. They finished off the day celebrating Aunt Sheree's birthday.Thursday: Abby returned to school. Grandma, Kate and Asher when birthday shopping with Aunt Sheree and then played at an indoor playground in the mall. Kate played really well with Asher while Abby was a school.
Friday: Kate and Asher went to the Children's Museum. Kate loved the giant bubble that she pulled up around herself. She also loved a shadow-making booth and a water area when the kids could assemble PVC pipe to direct the water. She played at Airtastics with Alex, Abby and Asher that evening and ended the busy day with by watching a movie (Oceans) at Abby's.Saturday: A visit to the aquarium, which, of course, was a highlight for Kate. She also chose her souvenir, Otto, there.Sunday: Church and a bit of a hard day for Kate. At bedtime, she called home asking where the family picture was that Ben had wisely sent with her. She slept in Grandma's bed Sunday night.
Monday: Abby's birthday. Birthday shopping at the American Girl Doll store. Dinner at Texas Roadhouse. Abby's fairy cake.Tuesday: Kate did a few puzzles prior to packing up and heading to the airport for the trip home. She did fantastic on both flights. I guess games on Grandma's iPhone, the Leapster, a fairy story book, a few treats, and a couple of other activities can keep a 5-year-old busy for a 3-hour flight.