From Mardi Gras to Bowling Tournaments...

Hello all, we are back! From Mardi Gras to bowling tournaments, Baton Rouge was a lot of fun!! Kelly really enjoyed the flights, I didn't know how she would do, but she thought flying was "cool." All travel went well. Arriving in Baton Rouge and seeing all the other folks from around the US coming together for the National Special Olympic Tournament, was quite inspiring. Everyone from airport personnel, to hotel and transportation, were so very kind and accommodating! It is a happy occasion to be around so many special people and their families. Arriving at the bowling center was quite exciting. A brand new bowling center, built especially for the American Bowling Congress National Tournament, in a brand new convention center. There were 50 lanes, large billboards over each lane with your names and scores in lights! The ABC officials said they always look forward to the Special Olympics coming each year and beginning the season (which actually starts the day after Special Olympic leaves). There were about 160 Special Olympic athletes and 160 unified partners. There were morning and afternoon competitions for two days. Kelly loved the opening ceremonies where we all marched in through the curtain in the center of the lanes to "March" music, waving at the spectators! We had two very nice dinners, and a party on Thursday night with a Mardi Gras theme. She enjoyed meeting some people there. After a little sight seeing, we left Baton Rouge. She is glad to be home, with her ribbons and souvenirs and looking forward to getting back to school. We are very grateful for this opportunity and remember to support Special Olympics when you can. Thank you for your words of encouragement and your prayers for our safe trip.