After the parade, we spent the day exploring the campus. Our first impression was that Jake does A LOT of walking during his day. Some in our group were counting steps, amazed at how high the numbers got.
Jake’s first day at school was spent being yelled at for anything and everything. He demonstrated for us, only he couldn’t keep a straight face.
We toured the academic building and met his chemistry teacher. Of the few chemistry teachers I know, they are all a bit…eccentric, and this one did not disappoint. He is one of Jake’s favorite professors because of his excitement for the subject. He led a demonstration in the lecture hall, where he showcased all sorts of interesting chemical reactions. For one, he roamed the crowd to choose a helper. Much to Ruthie’s surprise (and somewhat dread), he picked her to come down to the front. She did a great job!
We saw Jake’s math classroom.
Everyone took a turn trying on the service hat.
We all ate at lunch at Mitchell Hall (affectionately known as Mitch’s), where 4000 cadets are fed in 20 minutes. Thankfully on this day, we had the freedom to linger and chat for a while as we sat with the families of two of Jake’s friends. Jake invited his brothers to sit with him and the two friends at a separate table.
Next, it was time to check out the dorm room.
Cadets are encouraged to squeeze in some pull-ups whenever they walk past the bar. Jeremy gave it a try.
It was so nice to sit and chat in the spit-spot room. I made the mistake of leaning on Jake’s mattress since seating was limited, and he quickly reminded me that it’s best not to touch the bed. If he doesn’t sleep in it, I certainly shouldn’t be sitting on it.
Jeremy tried out the rubber ducky rifle.
The newly issued flight suit!
We then walked around looking at the model planes. Grandpa enjoyed reading about and describing them to the boys.
