Washington DC, 2013

We had a crazy day! We left our hotel early and headed to the Metro so we could figure it out and get started. We bought our one week short trip pass and headed to Arlington National Cemetery.








Arlington National Cemetery
This was not my first visit. But I am still totally blown away at the sacrifice of our military families so we can enjoy the freedoms of American? I am in awe of the men who serve at the Tomb Of the Unknown Solider! Through heat, cold, snow and even hurricanes, they don't want to leave their post! They are incredible! We were blessed to see not only the changing of the guard, but also a wreath laying ceremony.








We also stopped by and paid our respects to the Kennedy Family gravesides. The eternal flame is a very fitting tribute to John F. Kennedy. He was there only 12 days before he was assassinated in Dallas. He said, "It's so peaceful here, I could stay here forever."
After walking the hills of Arlington, we headed to the food court of the Ronald Reagan Building for lunch.
We then walked over to the National Archives and saw all the documents we cherish in this country. (Or should cherish!) The Declaration of Independence! The Constitution! The Bill of Rights!
We walked across the street, had pretzels and cokes from a street vendor and spent a little while in the Smithsonians Natural History Museum. We could not come all the way to DC and not see the Hope Diamond!




At 45 carrots it is not too shabby! We have spent time in the Natural History Museum in Chicago so after seeing the most incredible rocks!!












And of course the huge, hairy, 8 ton African bush elephant. Who can be found in the domed rotunda of the museum! We headed to the National American History Museum.
We headed to the 3 rd floor and started checking out the dresses worn by our First Ladies! Then to the 2 nd floor where we were in awe of the actual Flag that inspired the Star Spangled Banner!! I loved this museum. We spent a lot of time here.




It is sad when you had all the above and it is in a museum!




Christian Parks thought this was a funny looking computer!




But to see Julia Childs actual kitchen was a blast for me!
Time for ice cream break in the cafe and then back to the metro!
Once we got our car we decided to drive by the Iwo Jima Memorial.




Absolutely beautiful at sunset!!!
Then we drove by the Pentagon and went to dinner!
In case you are wondering, we did way to much today! We are all very tired and our legs hurt!
Can't wait to see where tomorrow takes us!
Lisa B