We rounded up some new contributors for the blog today! In an effort to make sure we’re documenting our trip from all perspectives, I’m interviewing seven-year-old Oliver to find out what he’s thinking about this adventure we’re about to embark on. You can listen or just read my rough transcript.

Mom: Oliver, what are you most excited about for our trip?

Oliver: Seeing river cruise ships on the Erie Canal. Seeing the tank museum at the Smithsonian, since I’m very interested in war. Seeing rockets launch off.

Mom: At Cape Canaveral? That would be exciting for sure. What are you most nervous about? Is there anything you’re nervous about, or anxious about?

Oliver: Hmmmm. Well. I don’t really know.

Mom: You’re feeling pretty good about it? You’re feeling pretty good today about leaving?

Oliver: Mmhmm.

Mom: What are you going to miss?

Oliver: Our house. And my friends.

Mom: Do you like living on the boat?

Oliver: Yes.

Mom: But you like living at the house too?

Oliver: Mmhmm.

Mom: How are you going to keep in touch with your friends? What are we going to do?

Oliver: Do video chats. And maybe do some video games together…

Mom: I like how you slide that one in there!

Oliver: And that’s all.

Mom: Okay. Do you think you’re going to make new friends?

Oliver: Mmhmm.

Mom: Are you excited about that?

Oliver: Mmhmm.

Mom: Anything else you’re thinking or feeling today or are excited about? About how you’re feeling about the trip?

Oliver: At the Smithsonian, there is Space Camps, where you get to learn about space. And so I’m excited to see if I can go to one of those.

Mom: Ok, we’ll have to research that, we’ll have to look it up and see if the timing is right.