And we’re off!

Day 1

States covered: Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York

Sites seen: Liberty State Park, Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty

Today has been a very successful day of traveling. Granted, it is only day 1. The girls were bored about an hour into the car ride. I think it’s good for them. They’re so attached to their devices and their friends through their devices and the barrage of media through their devices that I think it’s good for them to detach, step away, and be in the stillness for a while. Josh and I have been intentional about not being on our phones or devices either so we’re all fully present and enjoying the moment. And yes, I recognize the irony that I am currently on a device writing this post.

The girls really enjoyed seeing New York City. Miss A has been asking for a long time to see the Statue of Liberty and today we were able to make that happen. We took a ferry (turns out boats make me sick even if on them for just a few short minutes) and stopped first at Ellis Island and then at the Statue of Liberty. The girls have zero interest in actually reading about things so Josh and I just give them the summarized version of everything and that seems to do just fine. And they are loving keeping a travel journal (thank you Miss Kate and Mr. Ben).

We set up camp for the first time today. This was an adventure as the girls were just ready to go off and do things in the campsite as soon as we got here and less interested in setting up the camp. We’re still trying to convince them that if they keep the flap on their tent zipped up the bugs will stay out of it. We’re all learning, but all in all, today was a great day.

There have been several funny instances today. All involving Miss A.

A: What’s that city on the right?

Me: Newark

A: What’s that city on the left?

Me: New York

A: So there are two cities right next to each other with the same name, just in different states?

Me:…

Josh jumped in here to explain and when he was done A says “well I still think they sound very similar and that’s pretty confusing if you’re not from around these parts!”

😂😂😂

The other incident is only funny because she isn’t hurt. We spent most of the day encouraging the girls to look where they’re going and to pay attention to their surroundings. Apparently, A has been stockpiling cheeze-its and seems be keeping them in her pockets. She was very graciously sharing with her sister and not looking where she was going and walked straight into a pole. Poor thing! She promises she was more embarrassed than anything else.

Tomorrow we head to Philadelphia.

Talk to you soon!

Deanna