We Made it!!!

We arrived in Kansas City at 5 pm. It was a long day in the air - but an exciting one. Both James and Craig experienced their first flights. Landing in Chicago for our short layover - Craig came off the plane smiling and laughing - James looked like he was happy to be back on the ground. The good news is by the time we got to Kansas City - James had a smile on his face. It seems trip two went a little smoother. The best news is when we got to the baggage claim - all of our luggage was there waiting for us!!

We got our rental cars and headed into the city. We arrived at the Westin - which is a treat. It is one of Kansas City's nicest hotels. One student called me immediately because he was unsure - "what he could touch in his room?"

We headed out for a bite to eat. There are great things to explore in walking distance including the Science Center. However the convention center (where we will be competing is a quite a hike - a couple miles - so we will be driving.)

Our final event of the evening was the big Michigan Meeting! We had a chance to meet our fellow state competitors. We also got our badges, talked about important things like contest times and curfew and got - believe it or not hunter orange foam antlers. Matt and Josiah modeled them at my request. We will all be sporting these at the opening ceremony - tomorrow evening. I am sure the will look great with our sharp red blazers.

Tomorrow is a the day we all head to meetings to learn about what's expected at our contests - and a chance to explore the huge expo - filled with events sponsors eager to give aways cool things.

There is also a sacred SkillsUsa tradition - pin trading. Each state has a pin and the goal is to collect as many as you can. It's a cool way to meet other people from around the country.