First train trip

We were so excited for our first train trip to Washington DC/Virginia to visit Tio Jay, Nubi, and Maya. I headed out with the kids on Thursday afternoon. It's hilarious that I thought I could manage 2 kids, a stroller, a rolling suitcase, a backpack, and a shoulder bag of toys and good alone at Penn Station in the middle of the city. Luckily, Jermaine was on call the night before and was able to accompany us.  I'll have to add more pictures later, since I also forgot my phone in the rush to get out the door, and took pictures with Jermaine's phone until he arrived on Saturday.

No matter how much you prepare, a 3.5 hour train ride with two young kids and one adult is going to be bumpy. So I was so happy to see Jay at Union Station in DC.  We made it to his house in Falls Church, VA, had a little playtime with cousin Maya, and got the kids to sleep.

On Friday, we took the kids for a walk around the amazing lake that's right down the street.  We saw a crane and lots of other birds, and Tio Jay entertained us with stories of recent beaver attacks in the area.  There was also a nice playground that kept the kids busy for a while.

Jermaine was supposed to arrive mid-day on Saturday, but, due to a train delay, he didn't make it until late afternoon.  We visited the local farmer's market to stock up on supplies for dinner.  Then we spent the day cooking, eating, and drinking while we waited. Nubi surprised the kids with crayons that spelled out their names and had other fun shapes.  Shay created a "newspaper" that he took everywhere for the rest of the trip!
 



Mila loves Maya



Sunday was our last day in Virginia, so we ventured out to a "soft park" a few towns over.  On the way, we got a taste of life in Virgina: brick houses; tons of trees; and a few dead animals (a rabbit and a deer, complete with vultures!) on the side of the road, which was pretty new for us.  The park and playground was really fun; they even had a carousel!

After a yummy lunch from the Vietnamese deli, it was time to head to the train station.  I was so happy to have Jermaine's help on the return trip. 

We got introduced to Utz chips - yum!

All in all, it was a great trip. Fun times, great food, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.   Thanks Tio Jay, Nubi, and Maya - see you again soon!