Jesse's First Train Ride

This morning, it quickly became apparent to us that we needed to divide and conquer our kids. Janna was in a nasty mood, throwing food, screaming, crying, etc. We figured she needed to stay at home and chill with Momma. Jesse was fidgety and antsy; he needed to get out the the house with Dad.



But what could we do without spending money (or much of it)? Well, since Jesse is so in love with the idea of trains, I thought it might be fun to go on a little adventure with him to Ottawa's very own O-Train! Armed with nothing but a camera, snack, water, and some bus tickets, Jesse and I took off to explore the wonders of light-rail transportation.

The first part of the trip consisted of a twenty-minute walk to the transit way. On the way, we saw several wonders that rocked Jesse’s world. The first of these, pictured below, was a statue of two deer; however, Jesse was convinced that they were very real “kangaroos.” This was as close as he dared to approach.

Cutting through the field to the transitway stop. As we began to walk though, Jesse declared that this was “his field,” and claimed it in the name of the Vance family.

We stopped for a quick photo op. This is Jesse’s new “smile” for the camera. Anytime we tell him to smile, this is what he offers us. It’s endearing, in a gremlin-esque sort of way.

On the bus! I asked Jesse to show me his transfer slip, and he gave me a “smile” as well!

Finally! The train tracks! But where’s the train?

Concerned about the whereabouts of the train.

But not too concerned to smile!

Here it comes! Jesse was beside himself with excitement, but he was also overwhelmed by the train’s volume.

Couldn’t stop smiling.

“Bye, train!”

Time for a snack in the University Centre at Carleton. Jesse spoke to anyone and everyone nearby, earning both appreciative smiles and stricken looks from the stressed-out summer students.

Waiting for the train to come back. Again, he was concerned about where it could be, but he cheered himself up by singing some songs.

On the train, Jesse asked to speak to the camera. He wanted to record his thoughts on trains, and share a visual portrayal of different speeds that the train travelled. Here are his musings:

On the return bus (packed full), Jesse thought it might be appropriate to share some of his favorite songs with his fellow commuters. At the time of this picture, Jesse had locked eyes with a nervous-looking fellow across from him and was proceeding to serenade him with a jubilant version of “The Itsy Bitsy Spider.”

And that’s it! We returned home to a very irate Janna and a very tired Momma, and I felt a little bit bad for having such a fun time with Jesse. 

All the same, I'm glad we went. Jesse continues to amaze me with his love of adventures and his comfort in speaking (or singing) to other people. I was one proud dad today!

Signing off. Must see how Jack Bauer saves the world...

Until next time...!