Trip to Chicago

Ryan and I went on a trip to visit Uncle David last weekend. I know that the transition from being an only child to being the big brother has been a bit of a challenge and he has been craving some more one on one time, so a trip with just the two of us to Chicago seemed like the perfect remedy. This picture is of Ryan meeting the pilot of the plane, Ryan hadn't been on a plane since he was about 1 so it seemed like a new experience to him. Everyone at the airport was really nice to Ryan (including security- I know, color me shocked).

Here is Ryan's little set up, he had his snacks, drink and iPad (at this moment he was watching a bit of Finding Nemo). Ryan riding on the train into the city from the airport. A plane, then a train... what could be better for a 2 year old?After getting in Uncle David brought us to Michigan Ave and their super fun Disney store- I let Ryan pick out one toy so after lots of testing he ended up with a combo pack of Mac and Lightening McQueen from Cars. It was much needed because when we walked into Uncle David's apartment the firs thing out of Ryan's mouth was "Wow, nice place, where are the toys?"

The weather was pretty bad the whole time we were there- rainy, cold and grey but Ryan didn't mind- in fact I'm pretty sure he was excited he got to walk in the rain a lot (and splash in every puddle along the way).

This is the only picture with Ryan and I together where he wasn't hiding his face- he did it on purpose and on the train ride back to the airport he looked up at me and said "I no hide my face anymore"

Walking through the Lincoln Park Zoo

It was a vacation- he wanted ice cream so Uncle David and I took him out for ice cream- even though it was dinnertime and freezing outside.

Probably the most fun thing we did the whole time in Chicago was a visit to Shedd Aquarium. I am so thankful Uncle David took us. I had never been, even though I lived in the city for 2 years. It is a great place for kids- Ryan spent a lot of times playing in the Penguin section and in their model submarine.

The trip was a big success, Ryan loved the fact that he didn't have to share me with his sister and above and beyond that he got Uncle David's attention also. He loved the planes, trains, taxi's, museum, restaurants, and long walks around the city. He was exhausted by the time we headed home and it will probably take us at least a day to get back into the groove. I hope we are able to do more one on one trips with each of the kids in the near future.