TEENPACT!!!!

The annual TeenPact State Class in Virginia took place a few weeks ago! Holly went back as a returning student, which meant she had additional homework (two essays, one pro, one con, on entitlements). This was Trevor's first year going up for the whole week. This was the first year that Virginia had two separate week-long sessions, each of which had about 50 attendees, plus another dozen staffers.

Trevor's friend Kurt also came along. We all rode up together, dropping stuff off at the boy scout camp prior to heading into Richmond for lunch (Q-Doba!) and then meeting at the conference area near the Capitol.



It was nice for Holly and Trevor to know much more what to expect this time around. The ultra-conservative dress code was a non-issue this year; Holly knew ahead of time what outfits she would wear. Trevor and Kurt raided the closet of Kurt's big brothers' outgrown clothes to take their pick of suits. Really, such a blessing, as Trevor was gifted with two suits and a practically new pair of dress shoes. Too funny that he's 5'9" and still getting hand-me-downs!


Unfortunately, Trevor came down with a cold that he'd been trying to fight. He wasn't feeling well late Tuesday and threw up Wednesday morning (typical of him). We texted back and forth all day, trying to decide to make the three hour drive, or seeing if he could stick it out. Robert ended up driving out to get him; poor kid fell asleep within minutes of hitting the interstate and slept the entire way home. While it was a disappointment that he couldn't finish out the week, it was definitely the best decision.

Judy and I drove back up on Thursday, stopping to pick up the kids' luggage before meeting them in Richmond.

See Sozy-the-bear on Holly's bunk? He goes everywhere with her--even Peru. Seriously.

We stopped for lunch at a fabulous little Greek restaurant, where I had falafel. I haven't had this since we lived in Denver ten years ago! Oh.my.goodness. Heaven on a plate. I replicated it at home and will have to post the recipe.

The afternoon program included a demonstration of the mock legislature for which TeenPact is famous, along with several amazing speeches written by students who'd won mock elections during the week. It's so encouraging to watch these kids in action and to know that they are the next generation to lead our country.

Holly, of course, had a great week and is planning to attend a few events this year that are open only to alumni. Trevor enjoyed himself too but is looking forward to next year when he can go again. We love TeenPact. It's one of those extras that isn't cheap, but it's well worth doing whatever we can to make sure the kids can participate.