The Field Trip on the Big Yellow Bus

Thaddeus is a freelance writer, husband, and father. Blogging on family life and everything in between.
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http://thaddeuscasimirkos.blogspot.com/ and
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My daughter’s first field trip was in the morning, and she was pumped! I think she was more excited about riding on the bus than the actual trip. This one, I couldn't miss. I quickly volunteered to chaperon for her 1st grade class.
Now remind me again, why doesn't a bus have seat belts? After insistently searching and googling for a valid reason, I had to remind myself, not to be one of “those” dads. You know the one, encapsulating my princess in a bubble until she hates my guts.
Nevertheless, morning came and we set off to school. I was greeted by her teacher and assigned a group of 7 kids and a baggie with all of their information, including the rules. Amazingly, the main rule was to refrain from using alcohol and tobacco. Really? Wow, reminds me how common sense isn’t so common these days.
Good thing I left my 6 pack and smokes at the house!
With information in hand, and 7 kids in formation, we made our way to the bus. This is where the excitement started, since most kids (my girl in the bubble) never stepped foot on a bus before. Funny, I don’t recall the seating area being so small. Oh wait, that’s right, it’s only been 28 years since I stepped in one myself!
We waited curbside for what felt like an eternity. Finally, the bus roared away, as kids looked out the steamed up window, viewing their world in a whole new way. Their amazement was more than I anticipated. One kid shouted, “The train!” as we approached a bridge. Then, almost instantaneously, hands shot into the air, followed by screams! During all the buzz and excitement, it dawned on me, this could potentially be the best part of the trip!
Remind me, where are we going again?
Oh, yeah, The Shedd Aquarium. It really didn’t matter anymore. From boarding at the school, and commuting to downtown Chicago, the bus was the highlight.
I learned something that day. First of all, buses are actually very safe, no seat belts and all. The seats are designed to keep the kids contained, hence the extra tall backs, and tight quarters.
The best part is, kids don’t worry about “adult things.” They enjoy the simple stuff, especially the sights and sounds. So even though I walked away with a slight headache, I can’t wait for the chance to do it all over again!

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