I will begin where I left off… I had no clue as to what to expect when we arrived in California. I was told by the Ellen DeGeneres staff that once I arrived, they would fill me in on more details as to what Aiden will be doing on the show. Just a quick recap, Aiden has been learning his states using a few iPad apps that he insisted we get him. Then, once he conquered the United States, he wanted to learn about all the countries. So, we got him some more iPad apps. Then, we found out that we were invited to the Ellen Show Friday evening, and so much has happened since then. We landed Monday and within an hour of checking into the hotel we received a call. The Ellen Show has put together a few ideas that will show off Aiden’s geography skills. Because Aiden is only four, they were worried how he would react to the stage and react to these “ideas” they thought up. So they felt he may need a rehearsal. So, we scheduled a rehearsal Tuesday afternoon, but before Aiden got to work, I promised him a day at Universal Studios Park. The Ellen Show graciously put us in a hotel inside Universal Studios, very convenient. We spent the morning having fun, just me and Aiden which was so special for us both. I always attempt to spend quality time with each of the boys individually, but sometimes it’s challenging to say the least! So I made sure we took advantage of this ‘one on one’ time so it will be a trip he wouldn’t forget. After a few rides, a big bag of cotton candy, it was time to head to the studio. The staff at the Ellen Show could not have been any nicer to us. Aiden developed a huge crush with Tracy (a staff member). After some chatting, we walked on stage, and as soon as Aiden got a glimse of the map they put together for him, his eyes widened with excitement. Then, when he was told that the map was a game that he would be playing with Ellen and the map will light up and there was a “ding” when he would get an answer, right he was so elated. He, of course, passed the rehearsal with flying colors. Then, Tracy came up with a few “games” that Aiden and I needed to play in order to prepare him for Thursday’s taping. Games like “the staring game” where you need to stare at the person who is talking to you. The second game was “the long sentence game” where you need to try to answer the question using as many words as possible. But all I kept thinking was, “Is it really even possible to prepare him for what is going to happen tomorrow”. I couldn’t stop myself from thinking of all things that could possibly go wrong; I was beyond nervous for him. My tactic from day one was to not convey too much importance about being on the show. The Ellen Show was just one more thing I had planned while in California. We would be going to Universal Studios Park, Hollywood Boulevard, visit the Griffith Observatory, oh and I almost forgot we are going to the Ellen DeGeneres show and you are going to be on TV. LOL. I think the tactic worked. Aiden never once showed any signs of being nervous, overwhelmed, or frightened. I, on the other hand, felt every possible emotion all at once when I saw him walk on that big stage. The feeling was intense and once I tuned into the backstage monitor where I was watching the live show, I saw Aiden jogging (maybe even skipping) to greet Ellen with a huge smile across his face… And I was relieved-he is going to be fine! Aiden did more than fine! He was cute, smart, funny, quirky, silly, cool, and sweet. He is amazing and so very brave. I knew that it was a big deal that Aiden was going on Ellen, but not until I was backstage with him making my way towards the stage that I realized the accomplishment. He is so special that we have been flown across the United States to be on a nationally televised show.
I am overwhelmed with pride that this boy is my son! I know that the future holds many more powerful moments that will make me feel the way I feel at this moment, but I am definitely soaking it all in and enjoying the moment. I am so blessed in so many ways and right now at this moment in time life couldn’t be any better.
And if you weren’t able to see my Aiden on the show, here is a clip from yesterday’s show.
~Patty, the “P” in PS
P.S. Ryan Seacrest was backstage and spoke to us for a bit, “So sweet, congratulations Aiden on a job well done!” Love him… Talk about being starstruck!
