Adventures in the City...

Most mornings Robby comes happily trotting into our bedroom at an inhumanely early hour, ready to start playing. I plead with him to go back to bed, explaining that Mr. Sun didn't come up yet to say good morning. Typically unswayed, I am then bombarded with requests for milk and a cartoon. I sleepily pour myself a cup of coffee and try to keep him contained until the caffeine takes over.

On Monday morning, the tables were turned on my early rising toddler. We were expected in Washington DC at 8:30, which necessitated our leaving the house no later than 7:00. Scott and I didn't set the alarm clock because have learned that Robby is more reliable in rising than a crowing rooster.

Our little rooster slept in. I woke up at 6:30 in a panic. Scott immediately hopped into the shower while I literally threw my dress on. I opened Robby's bedroom door and discovered that Robby does not wake up gracefully.

Much to his chagrin, Robby had to forgo his typical toddler "uniform" of sweat pants for a more formal attire. My Dad was receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in public service. The ceremony was at a downtown hotel and was being attended by many dignitaries, including members of the President's Cabinet. I was not going to let Robby look like a ragamuffin!

Robby absolutely morphed into Robby Rotten the instant I slipped his white undershirt over his head. He hates short sleeves, adamant that shirts don't fit because his arms grew. We were running late, but Scott had to take off his sweater to show Robby that Daddy's tee shirt was short sleeved as well. Unconvinced, I simply opted to strap my wailing miserable little boy into his car seat and ignore his tantrum.

After about 20 minutes of expressing his displeasure in the car (i.e screeching), Robby finally settled down and began to chatter about going to the "super big city." Thank goodness for the GPS because we made several wrong turns on the way to the hotel. Apparently I don't offer clear and concise directions. I contend that Scott doesn't listen because he is too busy complaining about the directions I am offering. We would never survive the Amazing Race, but I'm sure we would be entertaining to watch!

Scott, Robby and I arrived at the hotel in time to see my Dad receive his award. I am so proud to be his daughter. After working in the field for over 30 years, he has finally been recognized for his pioneering ideas and steadfast dedication. I have witnessed the long hours and the mental and physical exhaustion which often accompanied his passion for his work. He truly deserves the accolades.

I became a fascinated spectator to my Dad working in his element. I witnessed his "professional side," and the respect he receives is inspiring. When he speaks, everybody pauses to listen. Even Scott mentioned the number of people constantly vying for my Dad's attention. I was not surprised he received a standing ovation at the conclusion of his speech. I was honored that he mentioned me during his moment.

Robby and I spent most of our time in the lobby, stacking jelly containers and playing with sugar packets. When the presentation was beginning Scott and I changed places. Although Robby was behaving himself, I knew that he is too young to be trusted in a formal situation. Entertainment with containment was the only way to ensure good behavior. Scott introduced him to the inherent joys of getting water out of a water cooler. Robby was happy as could be, and Scott was well-hydrated by the time the ceremony concluded.

We had the opportunity to briefly explore the city after the ceremony. Robby was awe struck by the sheer size of his surroundings. The buildings, he concluded, were "way bigger than Daddy." He saw a few fountains and could not understand why he wasn't allowed to splash. He became animated in his plea to get into the fountain so that he could take a bath.

When we were approached by an individual soliciting for spare change, Robby promptly told him that his money is "in the piggy bank at home so he can save for college." He enjoyed dancing along with the tunes from the street performers. He told a very nice gentleman in a motorized scooter that he liked his "cool motorcycle." He loved the beeping horns from the cars. Robby was in his element!

Of all of the days adventures, including seeing his beloved Candy Pap-Paw, do you know what impressed my little guy the most? It wasn't the monuments, or even seeing politicians. It wasn't the music, the buildings or the traffic. In the big city, he was able to buy potato chips and a hot dog on the street from a cart!

Despite the cold weather, we had a wonderful adventure in the city. Robby was behaved and, more importantly, quiet during the ceremony. He enjoyed exploring, and he ate a lot for lunch. Apparently all of the excitement tuckered Robby out. He slept the entire drive home, waking only as his Daddy was carrying him up the stairs.