BaltiMORE

We weren't done with our trip to Baltimore when we won the huge shiny trophy. We still needed to stay entertained for the rest of the overnight trip. (Although we're still not sure why the trip needed to be overnight in the first place.) First stop was the docks at the Inner Harbor, where we boarded the Spirit of Baltimore for a cruise around the harbor. Here's a few obligatory pictures of all of us on the boat:
We saw a much cooler cruise pass us while we were out there. A full-fledged tall ship, full of tourists, passed us twice. If we go back to Baltimore as a family, this is the cruise I want to take! Our timing was perfect to see the sunset as we headed back to the docks, though. Next, it was off to ESPN Zone.

They had worked a great deal for the band. $10 got us 1.5 hour play cards and a buffet in a private room.The food was just okay, but it was super nice of them to accomodate us so cheaply, so no complaints here! I'm sure their regular menu selections are much tastier. Although this helmet was in poor taste if you're a Packers fan facing this season!Our accomodations for the night at the LaQuinta Inn were fairly nice, again considering how cheaply they were obtained. Unfortunately, none of our key cards worked the first time we went up (which is a hassle when you're dealing with 30+ rooms) but it was sorted out and everyone was in their rooms - if not asleep - by 11:30. Scott and I lucked out and got a huge room with a king sized bed - guess they are trying to convince us to chaperone again.

The next morning we headed out on the buses again. Here's the only shot I got with Kairi near the trophy. I know, pathetic:We headed for Fort McHenry where we saw a moving presentation that ended with the curtain opening to show us the flag flying over the fort to the sound of the Star Spangled Banner. (Fort McHenry is the location where Francis Scott Key looked to see if the flag was still flying when he wrote our national anthem.) I thought it was moving. Scott thought it was cheesy. Can't please everyone! Still, it was a gorgeous day, and Scott did enjoy walking around the fort.

Look! Our kid actually stopped to read the signs. This time. Then she ran off with her friends and crawled into all the bunkers and hid under staircases. Ah well.These barracks still look really small to house 16 men. Especially since they were jammed in two to a bunk. We explored Fort McHenry for about an hour... ...tried to leave Kairi there... (no lock, drat)

And headed back to the Inner Harbor. Kai stuck with us for lunch and then found some friends and ran off. Lunch was delicious sandwiches at Potbelly Sandwich Works - good thing I looked at the nutritional information AFTER we ate. Left to our own devices, we decided to take the elevator up to the top of the Baltimore World Trade Center and check out the view.

Turns out the pattern on the plaza where we always walk is really cool from 27 stories up. And the rest of the view wasn't bad either.

Our chaperoning duties were far from arduous, but we were still glad to get on the bus and head home. It was a very tiring weekend. We were also glad to get back to Nicky, since we had worried about leaving him home sick, but he was fine. All in all, I think we'll chaperone more overnight trips, but it will be better when Nicky is in marching band, too!