Rachel’s New York City Sweet 16 Adventure

My last blog was 16 things I love about Rachel because we were off to NYC to celebrate her Sweet 16 and celebrate we did. We joke that Rachel leads a Forrest Gump type life. One of our friends says except this stuff really does happen to you guys! For my Facebook friends, I know you’ve had Rachel overload – sorry. Today, I’m mostly just going to post some pictures but I do want to give you a little perspective. Note the dates on some of the pictures.

This was our first trip to NYC in October 2000. First time on the NDSS Buddy Walk Times Square Video. The walk was in historic Central Park and the twin towers can be seen in the background on some of our pictures. This was Rachel’s first appearance on the Today Show with Al Roker, too.

Al Roker talked to Rachel and we went to the NBC studios and got this shot back in 2000.

NDSS NYC Buddy Walk 2000. First trip to Central Park.

Next trip was summer 2008. Her daddy had a business trip and it was just before we learned we would be moving to the Kansas City area. American Girl, Dylan’s Candy Bar, Toys R Us Ferris Wheel and of course, the Today Show with Al Roker were some of the highlights. And Mary Poppins.

American Girl with Sally & Marisol 2008.

Dylan's Candy Bar 2008 — Dylan’s Candy Bar 2008

Dylan's Candy Bar 2015 — Dylan’s Candy Bar 2015

I blinked and she turned 16. She continues to say she wants to live in NYC. It’s kind of like sports for me, it is in her soul. This trip was amazing. Rachel brings out the very best in people. Some generous friends and great tips allowed us some “super amazing” opportunities. Too many highlights to mention here but a few pictures and captions to give you an idea.

Waterfront looking out to Jersey from restuarant. — Waterfront 2015

Gotta call the Hogs on Times Square for our friend Bobby Wernes and our OmaHogs!

Julliard Fountain. We had just met a Rockette. Rachel trying out her kicks.

Pizza with Rachel's new buddy the lovely actress Jene Hernandez. — Pizza with Rachel’s new buddy the lovely actress Jene Hernandez.

Schmackarys - where the stars come after shows. Great cookies! — Schmackarys – where the stars come after shows. Great cookies!

At Schmakary's Bakery where we met William Ryall, Elphaba's dad in Wicked. — At Schmakary’s Bakery where we met William Ryall, Elphaba’s dad in Wicked.

Singing Happy Birthday to Rachel at Ellen's Stardust Diner. — Singing Happy Birthday to Rachel at Ellen’s Stardust Diner.

Surprise flowers & balloons from friends waiting in the room - how special! — Surprise flowers & balloons from friends waiting in the room – how special!

The Main Event: Wicked on Broadway. Rachel said it was perfect.

Wicked Pose with the Lovely Desi Oakley, Wicked Ensemble.

Gershwin Stage following Wicked. Thank you Desi Oakley.

Getting the scoop from Desi Oakley about what goes on backstage.

Rachel in the backstage hallway after Wicked. She had to Strike the Pose.

Radio City Music Hall Tour was awesome. Meeting a Rockette was Super Awesome!

Now what are we going to to for the rest of our lives? More about that – tomorrow!

PS – Please share this with anyone who thinks a person who is “afflicted” with Down syndrome.