DCBohemian's Photo(s) Of The Week: Mapes

Well Mamma and Pappa Mapes took a flight over the entire US and Atlantic Ocean and landed safely after something like 16 hours of travel. Melissa and I landed from England three hours later than their flight . We were very excited and eagerly awaiting our first planned guests (no offense Andy and Melissa). As eager as Mel and I were, we were sure Laurie and Jon were doubly excited. This was to be the christening of Laurie's new passport and her first time off good old USofA soil. We could hear it in their voices, they could barely hold back the enthusiasm. It was awesome to see their faces and get hugs from family. Being away from family and friends for extended periods of time can put a great strain on you. It was refreshing and comforting to see them. They insisted on letting us just lead them around and do what we wanted to do.

During our time here, as many of you have seen and read, we have found places we love and frequent regularly. Places ranging from restaurants, sites, beaches, foods, and shops. Each place they appreciated to the max. It was fun watching them be astonished by the fountain around the corner from our house that was dated from the 16th century and was older than the US itself.

Every time I am around the Mapes I enjoy them more and more and I also appreciate Melissa more and more. I see how wonderful Jon and Laurie are and I know what wonderful clothe she is cut from. The two of the reek from intrigue, insight, and hard work. They are great molds to model oneself after and that is what Melissa is doing. She is a mixture of the determination of Laurie and the outspokenness/unabashedness of Jon. Just the right amount to keep me in check and keep me going.

Their trip was a success and I look forward to more trips with them in the future. Enjoy!