Bladimir and his mother Aydee arrive at Chicago's O'Hare airport. Their flight was cancelled, the new flight departed much later and had a stop in Washington D.C., then to top it all off their luggage was missing. Not the best of starts. They are pictured here with Amanda Cramer, daughter of Andean Aid founder Wayne Cramer.

At left Bladimir gets his first taste of snow. He is shown with Jessie Rodriguez, daughter of Todd and Lorena Kearney. Jessica and her brothers gave up their bedrooms for Bladimir and Aydee to have a nice place to stay.

At right Bladimir visits a Hispanic church service. The kids loved him!

Aydee makes friends with Kaylee Perkins, granddaughter of Andean Aid founder Wayne Cramer. Kaylee and her younger sister Ember love Bladimir and Aydee whom Kaylee calls DayDay.

You don't get to do this in Rubio, Venezuela.

A trip to Chicago included a first ever train ride. Note Aydee wondering if the train will come off the track. The Sears Tower observation deck gave them a great overview of the city. Aydee said she had never seen so many buildings at one time.

For lunch they were taken to the only Colombian restaurant in Chicago, Las Platas". The food was authentic and very good. Aydee and Bladimir enjoyed the "down home" cooking.

At left Bladimir looks like he is wondering if Doctor Gomez could do anything to help the face of the Picasso at Daily Plaza.

Night of Champions at Chain of Lakes Community Bible Church gave Bladimir the opportunity to meet Chicago Bear defensive tackle Anthony Adams (left) and four time Superbowl Champion Harry Swayne (right).