I now wish that we had a metro in Andalusia. I would love to not have to drive anywhere.
However, I would need a nerve pill to ride with my children on a regular basis. It is truly a miracle that they both came back with all of their limbs. Not from the trains, but from the "escalades" as Haden called them. We had to ride up and down at least 2 escalators each time we entered or exited the metro. They loved to race to the escalades, race up or down, put pennies on rail and follow it until the end. It made me a nervous wreck. (I know thats hard to believe).
Whitman had the metro system down. He knew what color train to get on, how many stops we had, which way to go. He was definitely at home in the city.
Each train was identified by a color. We rode the blue, yellow, or red train most of the time. Haden referred to them as the "blue dot" "red dot" and "yellow dot" trains. If you are familiar with the bus system in Andalusia City Schools, this makes sense. He also had the info memorized that was played at each stop. "doors opening, please step to the center of the train to allow customers to board. Step back doors closing" and "This is the Blue line train....Largo (its destination.)
Finally, I think that DC would be a great city to live in for a while. It is very busy and crowded. I couldn't see having a family there (I guess unless you are the President).
I am also glad that we were able to do the things we did with the kids at their ages. Whitman is very inquisitive and really enjoyed all the things we did. Haden will have some memories of this trip. He will probably always remember calling the turkey at Mount Vernon. Not very historic, but a very neat memory. Who knows when we will get back to Washington. I am so glad that the boys have this experience to remember.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
How to commemorate the anniversary of the day after Lincoln died...
Thursday morning began very early for me. I was up and out of the hotel by 6:15 am. I was in line at the Washington Monument by 6:45am. Very cold!! However, the sun was out so I won't complain.
They only give out a certain number of tickets for each half hour. I was to determined to make this happen. So I stood in line with about 100 other people until 8:30. I was able to get us 4 tickets for 10:30.
Meanwhile, Jody and the boys made their way to Union Station about 8:30 to get tickets for a duck boat tour. We met back up at the Washington Monument about 9:15.
We decided to walk around the Tidal Basin to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. The cherry blossom trees that are all around the basin must have already lost their blooms. A million people came to see them over the last 2 weeks. They weren't very pretty any more.
This memorial is one of my favorites. Jefferson just looks so stately standing there. While we were there, Marine One, the President's helicopter. and 2 others flew over. We had noticed the wonderful view of the Jefferson Memorial from the White House on Monday. You can actually see Jefferson standing from the upper part of the South Lawn. Well today we were in the perfect spot for this flyover. The 3 helicopters flew directly over us, by the Washington Monument, and on to the White House. The outer 2 circled out, but the middle one landed on the South Lawn and we got to see it all. With the zoom on our camera, we got some great pictures. We waited for it to take of, but we had to get back for the Washington Monument. As we were walking back, the President flew over. I think we was going to Mexico so I am assuming that the helicopter was taking him to Air Force One.
We made our trip up the W.M. The view from there is wonderful. You can see virtually everything in the city. We ended up staying up there quite a while. Actually too long. We had a noon tour on the duck boat. We only had about 25 minutes. So of course, here we go again running!!
We walked rather briskly to the metro. Of course there were delays on the red line to Union Station (where the tour starts). As we get there with just a few minutes to spare, Jody realized that he had only gotten 3 tickets (paid for 4/got 3). Of course, there was a line, but he went to the front. They had the 4th ticket. We hurried to the truck/boat. We were the last to board, but we made it. This tour was about 1 1/2 hours on land in in the Potomac River. All the kids got to drive the boat in the water. The tour guide was funny and gave lots of good info. We enjoyed this tour.
When we got back, we ate lunch at Union Station, and decided that we needed to walk around the Capitol. We had been inside, but it had been raining so we did see the outside. So, we walked around to see both sides. We also saw the Supreme Court building and the Thomas Jefferson building of the Library of Congress. We did not go in these buildings. We had a tour of the Supreme Court scheduled, but did not make it. I figured it was one thing that we could do without. Even though we were there for 6 days, and we toured as hard as we could everyday, we couldn't see nearly everything.
As we finished our walk around the Capitol, I believe it was at this point that Haden was officially finished. Done. He could hardly go on. He would stop and lie down on a step or sit down on a bench. It was probably 2:30 or 3:00 at this point. We had to be at Ford's Theatre at 4:00. Whit wanted to go to the gift shop at the Air and Space Museum, and Jody wanted to go into the Smithsonian Castle. So we split up and conquered. But, once again, things always take longer than planned.
We had to go through security to get in the museum. Haden wanted me to get him some dog tags, so I had to stand in line. Whit had to pick out his souvenir and stand in line to pay,and on and on. Long story short, we were once again hurrying to get to Ford's Theatre by 4:00. So again we are jogging down the sidewalks. We finally make it with moments to spare only to stand in a line that goes 1/2 a city block and around the corner.
This tour was worth the wait. We saw the theatre where Lincoln was shot, sat in the seats where the Presidents now sits when he's there, and went across the street to see the house where Lincoln died.
It was probably 5:30 at this point and a beautiful afternoon. I wanted to get t-shirts for the boys, but the were ready to go. So they went back to the Mall and I shopped for a little while. I met back up with them. We then walked to the Washington Monument. Believe or not, we were actually hot and thirsty. It had turned into a nice spring day. We got a drink and sat in the shadow of the W.M. The boys ran around and played. It was nice to relax for a few minutes and soak up out last moments in DC. We pondered walking around to the FDR Memorial, but frankly, we were all too tired. I think it's the only one we didn't see. We'll have to catch it next time. We were going to go to a Washington Nationals baseball game, but we were physically unable.
So for the last time, we made our way to the metro and to the blue line train to Crystal City. What a trip!
We ordered in pizza to the hotel and packed our things. We had an early start Friday morning.
They only give out a certain number of tickets for each half hour. I was to determined to make this happen. So I stood in line with about 100 other people until 8:30. I was able to get us 4 tickets for 10:30.
Meanwhile, Jody and the boys made their way to Union Station about 8:30 to get tickets for a duck boat tour. We met back up at the Washington Monument about 9:15.
We decided to walk around the Tidal Basin to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. The cherry blossom trees that are all around the basin must have already lost their blooms. A million people came to see them over the last 2 weeks. They weren't very pretty any more.
This memorial is one of my favorites. Jefferson just looks so stately standing there. While we were there, Marine One, the President's helicopter. and 2 others flew over. We had noticed the wonderful view of the Jefferson Memorial from the White House on Monday. You can actually see Jefferson standing from the upper part of the South Lawn. Well today we were in the perfect spot for this flyover. The 3 helicopters flew directly over us, by the Washington Monument, and on to the White House. The outer 2 circled out, but the middle one landed on the South Lawn and we got to see it all. With the zoom on our camera, we got some great pictures. We waited for it to take of, but we had to get back for the Washington Monument. As we were walking back, the President flew over. I think we was going to Mexico so I am assuming that the helicopter was taking him to Air Force One.
We made our trip up the W.M. The view from there is wonderful. You can see virtually everything in the city. We ended up staying up there quite a while. Actually too long. We had a noon tour on the duck boat. We only had about 25 minutes. So of course, here we go again running!!
We walked rather briskly to the metro. Of course there were delays on the red line to Union Station (where the tour starts). As we get there with just a few minutes to spare, Jody realized that he had only gotten 3 tickets (paid for 4/got 3). Of course, there was a line, but he went to the front. They had the 4th ticket. We hurried to the truck/boat. We were the last to board, but we made it. This tour was about 1 1/2 hours on land in in the Potomac River. All the kids got to drive the boat in the water. The tour guide was funny and gave lots of good info. We enjoyed this tour.
When we got back, we ate lunch at Union Station, and decided that we needed to walk around the Capitol. We had been inside, but it had been raining so we did see the outside. So, we walked around to see both sides. We also saw the Supreme Court building and the Thomas Jefferson building of the Library of Congress. We did not go in these buildings. We had a tour of the Supreme Court scheduled, but did not make it. I figured it was one thing that we could do without. Even though we were there for 6 days, and we toured as hard as we could everyday, we couldn't see nearly everything.
As we finished our walk around the Capitol, I believe it was at this point that Haden was officially finished. Done. He could hardly go on. He would stop and lie down on a step or sit down on a bench. It was probably 2:30 or 3:00 at this point. We had to be at Ford's Theatre at 4:00. Whit wanted to go to the gift shop at the Air and Space Museum, and Jody wanted to go into the Smithsonian Castle. So we split up and conquered. But, once again, things always take longer than planned.
We had to go through security to get in the museum. Haden wanted me to get him some dog tags, so I had to stand in line. Whit had to pick out his souvenir and stand in line to pay,and on and on. Long story short, we were once again hurrying to get to Ford's Theatre by 4:00. So again we are jogging down the sidewalks. We finally make it with moments to spare only to stand in a line that goes 1/2 a city block and around the corner.
This tour was worth the wait. We saw the theatre where Lincoln was shot, sat in the seats where the Presidents now sits when he's there, and went across the street to see the house where Lincoln died.
It was probably 5:30 at this point and a beautiful afternoon. I wanted to get t-shirts for the boys, but the were ready to go. So they went back to the Mall and I shopped for a little while. I met back up with them. We then walked to the Washington Monument. Believe or not, we were actually hot and thirsty. It had turned into a nice spring day. We got a drink and sat in the shadow of the W.M. The boys ran around and played. It was nice to relax for a few minutes and soak up out last moments in DC. We pondered walking around to the FDR Memorial, but frankly, we were all too tired. I think it's the only one we didn't see. We'll have to catch it next time. We were going to go to a Washington Nationals baseball game, but we were physically unable.
So for the last time, we made our way to the metro and to the blue line train to Crystal City. What a trip!
We ordered in pizza to the hotel and packed our things. We had an early start Friday morning.
A few suggestions of what NOT to do on a rainy day in DC:
Wednesday began cold and rainy. (Actually it ended cold and rainy and was cold and rainy every moment in between.) Our first appointment of the day was a tour of the Capital. We ate breakfast at the hotel and then made our way to the Longworth Office building to Bobby Bright's office. His staffers were the ones giving us our tour.
We arrived early. We were able to go in his office and have our picture made behind his desk. Whitman and Haden got to sit in his chair. From what I gather, he has a very good office for a freshman member of Congress. They get their offices by a lottery. He also has a flat screen tv in his office, but we were told the previous Representative left it.
I have been emailing with one of his staffers, Anna Bern. I always referred to her as Ms. Bern. When I met her, she was like 23 years old. All of the staffer that we saw were very young. Anyway, our tour began with a guy name Trey. He graduated from Samford University and was a youth minister in Opp one summer. He too was very young. He took us to the Capitol Visitors' Center. The Capitol is no longer opened to public walk throughs. All tours must be guide led.
There were so many people waiting for their tour. However, we got the rock star tour. Trey flashed his green staffer badge, got our tickets. The tour started with a short movie about the purpose of the legislative branch. We got to go in the back door and get first choice of seats in the theatre. Planning does really pay off. Anna took over the tour after the movie.
I will say that the Trey and Anna were pretty funny. They have only been in Washington since January, and this was the first tours they had done when Congress was not in session. They weren't sure what they could and couldn't do or where they could and couldn't go. We had gallery passes for the House and Senate side, but the Senate side is closed when not in session.
Since Congress was not in session, we were able to get a floor pass to the House of Representatives. This must be a big deal. Anna had never been, and didn't know how to get there. She asked a security guard and we were on our way. We went into a part of the Capital where only the members go. The hallways and chamber were exquisite . It is a shame that no one gets to see it. We knew that we could take pictures in the gallery (the take all of your electronics). Just so you know, that rule also applies to the hallways leading to the chamber. Jody tried, but security nixed that very quickly. We got to go on the House floor, sit in their chairs and see where they vote. We were feet away from where the President gives the State of the Union address. This was part of the rock star tour. Many people were walking around in the balcony. We were the only ones on the floor.
In addition to the gallery, we saw the rotunda which is completely beautiful, Statuary Hall, and the Crypt. We probably didn't get as much historical info as the we would have from the tour guides, but honestly I probably wouldn't remember it anyway. We came, we saw. Check it off the list and move on. Oh, and we got to ride the train that connects the office buildings with the capital. Fun for the kids and very helpful when it is raining.
We went back to Bright's office, signed the book, and Anna gave the boys some books on the Constitution and flags. We met a mother and daughter from Enterprise that were there for a tour. They know my friend Cami who is a guidance counselor at EHS. Again, small world.
Luckily I had planned Wednesday afternoon to be for visiting museums. Unluckily, so did everyone else. We wanted to go to the Museum of American History and the Museum of Natural History.
We started of in American History. Whit wanted to start in the science part. They have a kids lab, where they do experiments every 30 minutes. This was right up Whit's alley. We ended up staying in there over an hour. Other than that, we didn't do much in that museum. For one, this museum is very busy (by this I mean that there are lots of exhibits and lots of info.) You would have to spend a very long time and read quite a bit of info. This was not possible due to the large crowds and my party. I would liked to have seen the exhibit on the First Ladies and the pop culture exhibit, but the lines were very long. Oh well. Maybe next time.
We had to get a snack next, because blood sugar was dropping and we were sinking. Our schedule was off, so we had eaten a late breakfast, no lunch. We then headed to Natural History.
We were in luck. This museum was going to be open until 7:30 instead of 5:30. Great! Two more hours of walking. It was the best news I had heard all day.
Whit really did like this museum. He has always wanted to see a big dinosaur. He finally got to see several. We saw the Hope Diamond and many other rocks and bones. Whit is totally enamored with science. He could have stayed here for a very long time. However, with a pass through the gift shop, we were out in a little over 2 hours.
With a slight break in the rain, we decided to make our way to the ESPN Zone for dinner. by this time it was between 6:30 and 7:00. On the way I decided to go by Ford's Theatre to get tickets for Thursday. When we got to ESPN, the wait was 2 hours. On to plan B.
We took the metro back to Crystal City and shuttled to the hotel. We got the shuttle guy to drop us off at Ted's Montana Grill. We had eaten there Sunday, and loved it. So, we went again. Jody and I both had a bison steak. Very good!! We took a cab back to the hotel bacause it was raining.
It was 10:00 before we got back to the hotel. Another very long day!!
Tomorrow is our last day! We are going to try and cram in all of the things we have't done yet.
Stay tuned......
We arrived early. We were able to go in his office and have our picture made behind his desk. Whitman and Haden got to sit in his chair. From what I gather, he has a very good office for a freshman member of Congress. They get their offices by a lottery. He also has a flat screen tv in his office, but we were told the previous Representative left it.
I have been emailing with one of his staffers, Anna Bern. I always referred to her as Ms. Bern. When I met her, she was like 23 years old. All of the staffer that we saw were very young. Anyway, our tour began with a guy name Trey. He graduated from Samford University and was a youth minister in Opp one summer. He too was very young. He took us to the Capitol Visitors' Center. The Capitol is no longer opened to public walk throughs. All tours must be guide led.
There were so many people waiting for their tour. However, we got the rock star tour. Trey flashed his green staffer badge, got our tickets. The tour started with a short movie about the purpose of the legislative branch. We got to go in the back door and get first choice of seats in the theatre. Planning does really pay off. Anna took over the tour after the movie.
I will say that the Trey and Anna were pretty funny. They have only been in Washington since January, and this was the first tours they had done when Congress was not in session. They weren't sure what they could and couldn't do or where they could and couldn't go. We had gallery passes for the House and Senate side, but the Senate side is closed when not in session.
Since Congress was not in session, we were able to get a floor pass to the House of Representatives. This must be a big deal. Anna had never been, and didn't know how to get there. She asked a security guard and we were on our way. We went into a part of the Capital where only the members go. The hallways and chamber were exquisite . It is a shame that no one gets to see it. We knew that we could take pictures in the gallery (the take all of your electronics). Just so you know, that rule also applies to the hallways leading to the chamber. Jody tried, but security nixed that very quickly. We got to go on the House floor, sit in their chairs and see where they vote. We were feet away from where the President gives the State of the Union address. This was part of the rock star tour. Many people were walking around in the balcony. We were the only ones on the floor.
In addition to the gallery, we saw the rotunda which is completely beautiful, Statuary Hall, and the Crypt. We probably didn't get as much historical info as the we would have from the tour guides, but honestly I probably wouldn't remember it anyway. We came, we saw. Check it off the list and move on. Oh, and we got to ride the train that connects the office buildings with the capital. Fun for the kids and very helpful when it is raining.
We went back to Bright's office, signed the book, and Anna gave the boys some books on the Constitution and flags. We met a mother and daughter from Enterprise that were there for a tour. They know my friend Cami who is a guidance counselor at EHS. Again, small world.
Luckily I had planned Wednesday afternoon to be for visiting museums. Unluckily, so did everyone else. We wanted to go to the Museum of American History and the Museum of Natural History.
We started of in American History. Whit wanted to start in the science part. They have a kids lab, where they do experiments every 30 minutes. This was right up Whit's alley. We ended up staying in there over an hour. Other than that, we didn't do much in that museum. For one, this museum is very busy (by this I mean that there are lots of exhibits and lots of info.) You would have to spend a very long time and read quite a bit of info. This was not possible due to the large crowds and my party. I would liked to have seen the exhibit on the First Ladies and the pop culture exhibit, but the lines were very long. Oh well. Maybe next time.
We had to get a snack next, because blood sugar was dropping and we were sinking. Our schedule was off, so we had eaten a late breakfast, no lunch. We then headed to Natural History.
We were in luck. This museum was going to be open until 7:30 instead of 5:30. Great! Two more hours of walking. It was the best news I had heard all day.
Whit really did like this museum. He has always wanted to see a big dinosaur. He finally got to see several. We saw the Hope Diamond and many other rocks and bones. Whit is totally enamored with science. He could have stayed here for a very long time. However, with a pass through the gift shop, we were out in a little over 2 hours.
With a slight break in the rain, we decided to make our way to the ESPN Zone for dinner. by this time it was between 6:30 and 7:00. On the way I decided to go by Ford's Theatre to get tickets for Thursday. When we got to ESPN, the wait was 2 hours. On to plan B.
We took the metro back to Crystal City and shuttled to the hotel. We got the shuttle guy to drop us off at Ted's Montana Grill. We had eaten there Sunday, and loved it. So, we went again. Jody and I both had a bison steak. Very good!! We took a cab back to the hotel bacause it was raining.
It was 10:00 before we got back to the hotel. Another very long day!!
Tomorrow is our last day! We are going to try and cram in all of the things we have't done yet.
Stay tuned......
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Who knew today was the anniversary of when Lincoln was shot???
Today has been a cold rainy day, but the Jacksons have not slowed down. We didn't start quite as early today. We ate breakfast at the hotel (you can imagine Jody's response) and then we were off to Mount Vernon.
We have our Garmin, but she was not very helpful today. At one point she had us going in the wrong direction (maybe it wasn't all her fault). We did make it to Mount Vernon after a few wrong turns.
We toured the grounds of the estate. The view of the Potomac River is breathtaking! I could sit on that porch for hours (especially if it was sunny and not 42 degrees). We walked through the main house and all of the outer buildings. Seeing where Washington made many decisions that formed the backbone of our country was neat. We also saw where he died and where he is entombed.
We spent a while in the back yard overlooking the Potomac River. Haden and Whitman especially enjoyed this part because they got to see and call a wild turkey. They had so much fun calling the turkey and the turkey called back. They also had new baby lambs in the barn. Jody said living at Mount Vernon woul be heavenly. It was just so peaceful. We all decided it would be the perfect place to live.
When we got back to the hotel we dropped off the car (BTW Jody was floored when he found out we were paying a daily fee to park. It took him a while to digest this information. So many things about this trip he is hearing now for the first time. I've told him before. I see now how well he tunes me out!!) snacked a bit and then we were off to the city.
Whit has been dying to go to the International Spy Museum and today was the day. We took the metro to Chinatown. This was the first time on the trip we have seen any homeless people. Lots of granola looking people roaming in groups. I didn't really care for Chinatown.
Anyway, we got our tickets to the museum. I had also planned for us to go to Ford's Theatre since it was in the same neighborhood. We turned the corner and there were several hundred people waiting to get into Ford's Theatre.
Who knew today was the anniversary of the day Lincoln was shot? Obviously alot of people do and they want to commemorate the day by visiting Ford's Theatre. The Jackson's were not in that group. Maybe another day.
So I quickly developed a plan B. We had about 2 hours, so we decided to go to the National Archives to see the Declaraion of Independence, The Bill of Rights, and the Constitution. The line was very long. We finished just in time to get back to the spy museum. We toured it. Whit really liked it (especially the gift shop).
We made our way back to the metro and decided to stop at the mall in Pentagon City. There is an Apple (Mac) store there and we thought we could grab some supper in the food court. There were so many people! We found the Apple store and Jody got his Mac fix. We also had to find some batteries for the gadgets the boys bought at the spy museum. We supper at Johnny Rockets. To let you know how tired we are: This mall had four floors of stores and I could even manage to go into one store. All I wanted to do was get back and lie down.
Whit's favorite part of today was the Spy Museum, Haden's was seeing the turkey and the lambs at Mount Vernon, Jody's was the grounds of Mount Vernon and the Apple store. I would have to say my favorite was Mount Vernon as well.
I know I keep saying how tired we are. This is like Disney times 10. Jody and I of course keep on going and Whitman is doing very well. Haden however is fading. He definitely has his moments. I know it's hard for his little legs to keep up. We've only had to drag him a few times (just kidding). I guess he is doing pretty well considering he is only six and could not care less about most of this stuff. I'm sure if any of you are the younger child in your family, you can relate.
Well tomorrow we're off to a tour of the Capital. We will probably try to take in The Museum of American History and The Museum of Natural History.
Until then....
We have our Garmin, but she was not very helpful today. At one point she had us going in the wrong direction (maybe it wasn't all her fault). We did make it to Mount Vernon after a few wrong turns.
We toured the grounds of the estate. The view of the Potomac River is breathtaking! I could sit on that porch for hours (especially if it was sunny and not 42 degrees). We walked through the main house and all of the outer buildings. Seeing where Washington made many decisions that formed the backbone of our country was neat. We also saw where he died and where he is entombed.
We spent a while in the back yard overlooking the Potomac River. Haden and Whitman especially enjoyed this part because they got to see and call a wild turkey. They had so much fun calling the turkey and the turkey called back. They also had new baby lambs in the barn. Jody said living at Mount Vernon woul be heavenly. It was just so peaceful. We all decided it would be the perfect place to live.
When we got back to the hotel we dropped off the car (BTW Jody was floored when he found out we were paying a daily fee to park. It took him a while to digest this information. So many things about this trip he is hearing now for the first time. I've told him before. I see now how well he tunes me out!!) snacked a bit and then we were off to the city.
Whit has been dying to go to the International Spy Museum and today was the day. We took the metro to Chinatown. This was the first time on the trip we have seen any homeless people. Lots of granola looking people roaming in groups. I didn't really care for Chinatown.
Anyway, we got our tickets to the museum. I had also planned for us to go to Ford's Theatre since it was in the same neighborhood. We turned the corner and there were several hundred people waiting to get into Ford's Theatre.
Who knew today was the anniversary of the day Lincoln was shot? Obviously alot of people do and they want to commemorate the day by visiting Ford's Theatre. The Jackson's were not in that group. Maybe another day.
So I quickly developed a plan B. We had about 2 hours, so we decided to go to the National Archives to see the Declaraion of Independence, The Bill of Rights, and the Constitution. The line was very long. We finished just in time to get back to the spy museum. We toured it. Whit really liked it (especially the gift shop).
We made our way back to the metro and decided to stop at the mall in Pentagon City. There is an Apple (Mac) store there and we thought we could grab some supper in the food court. There were so many people! We found the Apple store and Jody got his Mac fix. We also had to find some batteries for the gadgets the boys bought at the spy museum. We supper at Johnny Rockets. To let you know how tired we are: This mall had four floors of stores and I could even manage to go into one store. All I wanted to do was get back and lie down.
Whit's favorite part of today was the Spy Museum, Haden's was seeing the turkey and the lambs at Mount Vernon, Jody's was the grounds of Mount Vernon and the Apple store. I would have to say my favorite was Mount Vernon as well.
I know I keep saying how tired we are. This is like Disney times 10. Jody and I of course keep on going and Whitman is doing very well. Haden however is fading. He definitely has his moments. I know it's hard for his little legs to keep up. We've only had to drag him a few times (just kidding). I guess he is doing pretty well considering he is only six and could not care less about most of this stuff. I'm sure if any of you are the younger child in your family, you can relate.
Well tomorrow we're off to a tour of the Capital. We will probably try to take in The Museum of American History and The Museum of Natural History.
Until then....
Another great day in DC!
I could not update the blog last night. I was so tired. Every inch of my body hurt. I had to go to bed. Jody and I have decided that we will no longer call these trips we take "vacations". That term gives some false sense of relaxation that we definitely have not experienced. I suggest that we call them "intensives". So from now on, this trip will be referred to as the Washington, DC Intensive.
Yesterday began early for Jody as he left the hotel before 7:30 to get tickets for the Bureau of Engraving. He wants me to add that it was freezing cold. After his solo voyage on the metro, he came back as the metro pro. He now knows the best way to get anywhere. The boys and I got dressed and ate breakfast. It was 9:30 before he got back. He changed clothes and we were off.
We started by going to Bobby Bright's office (which was full of BAMA and Nick Saban stuff :-) in the Longworth Office Building to get our White House Easter Egg Roll tickets. We then walked to the Air and Space Museum. We stayed there until about 1:00. We then walked through the Mall to the Old Post Office Pavilion to eat lunch. After lunch we made our way to the White House. We were told to be there one hour before our time. I now know why. We stood in line on the Ellipse with the other several thousand people in our group. We all had to go through a security check. Snipers atop the White House were watching out every move. Everyone behaved very well. No fights, no pushing or shoving. All in all it was not that bad. The sun came out and the temps rose. It was probably 3:30 before we actually got inside the White House gate.
The White House is just so grand. Looking back now, it is almost surreal that we were even there. The lawn is so beautiful. The tulips there as well in other places in the city are georgeous. We took lots of pictures. The kids participated in the Easter Egg Roll. They had a camera set up with live feed to the internet. My mom, dad and Brandace all saw the boys in the Roll. I though that was pretty cool. They also dyed eggs, jumped rope, played basketball, and just ran around. It was very neat to be that close to the White House. I must say, the President has a very nice view of the city. Jody and I were snapping photos and the boys were wanting to run and play. Everyone had a nice time. As we left, we got our souvenir wooden eggs. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience. Thompsons: Barack, Michelle, and the girls said "hello".
Then we were on our way to the Bureau of Engraving. Our tour was at 5:45. We had to be there about 10 minutes early and it was 5:15 When we left the White House. We ran (and I mean we ran) from the White House, across the Washington Monument, and down the street. When we arrived, we were on the wrong side of the building so we ran some more. That tour was very short and not too exciting, but was neat to see. A man in line behind us said he had been to DC 6 times and never got in. We can say we did it.
After that tour, we walked the nearest metro stop and headed back to Crystal City. We came back to the hotel, changed clothes (because we were dressed up for our trip to the WH) and went to eat at Chipotle mexican restaurant. Whit finally got his ride in a cab because we absolutely could not walk any further. (However, we did walk back bacause the cabi charged us almost $7 to ride 3 blocks. Jody said we could suck it up and walk.)
We all agree that the Easter Egg Roll was our favorite thing on Monday. However, Jody said seeing all of that money was a very close second. He bought $16 worth of uncut $2 for $32. He said that really wasn't as bad as most of his other investments right now.
On a side note: At the White House, Whit was jumping rope with a another little boy. Whit said something to him and the little boy said "You sound like a cowboy!" Also, when we were getting our picture made, the lady said "you all look so nice!" She asked where we were from. When we told her Alabama, she said all of the people from the south were dressed up and looked very nice. (Believe me we saw all kinds - Lots of Barack Obama gear!!)
By the way, as he does with most areas, Jody is now giving me suggestions on what to write to make this blog better. Thank God I have such a helpful spouse!!! I ( I mean We) hope you enjoy this new and improved update!!
Yesterday began early for Jody as he left the hotel before 7:30 to get tickets for the Bureau of Engraving. He wants me to add that it was freezing cold. After his solo voyage on the metro, he came back as the metro pro. He now knows the best way to get anywhere. The boys and I got dressed and ate breakfast. It was 9:30 before he got back. He changed clothes and we were off.
We started by going to Bobby Bright's office (which was full of BAMA and Nick Saban stuff :-) in the Longworth Office Building to get our White House Easter Egg Roll tickets. We then walked to the Air and Space Museum. We stayed there until about 1:00. We then walked through the Mall to the Old Post Office Pavilion to eat lunch. After lunch we made our way to the White House. We were told to be there one hour before our time. I now know why. We stood in line on the Ellipse with the other several thousand people in our group. We all had to go through a security check. Snipers atop the White House were watching out every move. Everyone behaved very well. No fights, no pushing or shoving. All in all it was not that bad. The sun came out and the temps rose. It was probably 3:30 before we actually got inside the White House gate.
The White House is just so grand. Looking back now, it is almost surreal that we were even there. The lawn is so beautiful. The tulips there as well in other places in the city are georgeous. We took lots of pictures. The kids participated in the Easter Egg Roll. They had a camera set up with live feed to the internet. My mom, dad and Brandace all saw the boys in the Roll. I though that was pretty cool. They also dyed eggs, jumped rope, played basketball, and just ran around. It was very neat to be that close to the White House. I must say, the President has a very nice view of the city. Jody and I were snapping photos and the boys were wanting to run and play. Everyone had a nice time. As we left, we got our souvenir wooden eggs. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience. Thompsons: Barack, Michelle, and the girls said "hello".
Then we were on our way to the Bureau of Engraving. Our tour was at 5:45. We had to be there about 10 minutes early and it was 5:15 When we left the White House. We ran (and I mean we ran) from the White House, across the Washington Monument, and down the street. When we arrived, we were on the wrong side of the building so we ran some more. That tour was very short and not too exciting, but was neat to see. A man in line behind us said he had been to DC 6 times and never got in. We can say we did it.
After that tour, we walked the nearest metro stop and headed back to Crystal City. We came back to the hotel, changed clothes (because we were dressed up for our trip to the WH) and went to eat at Chipotle mexican restaurant. Whit finally got his ride in a cab because we absolutely could not walk any further. (However, we did walk back bacause the cabi charged us almost $7 to ride 3 blocks. Jody said we could suck it up and walk.)
We all agree that the Easter Egg Roll was our favorite thing on Monday. However, Jody said seeing all of that money was a very close second. He bought $16 worth of uncut $2 for $32. He said that really wasn't as bad as most of his other investments right now.
On a side note: At the White House, Whit was jumping rope with a another little boy. Whit said something to him and the little boy said "You sound like a cowboy!" Also, when we were getting our picture made, the lady said "you all look so nice!" She asked where we were from. When we told her Alabama, she said all of the people from the south were dressed up and looked very nice. (Believe me we saw all kinds - Lots of Barack Obama gear!!)
By the way, as he does with most areas, Jody is now giving me suggestions on what to write to make this blog better. Thank God I have such a helpful spouse!!! I ( I mean We) hope you enjoy this new and improved update!!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Spring HAS NOT "Sprung" in DC!!
Our second day in DC was Easter Sunday. When we woke up this morning, I checked the weather....39 degrees,feels like 32. Perfect weather for sight seeing!!
We attended Easter Services at the National Cathedral. Truly an amazing experience. If you have ever been in this cathedral before, you know how grand it is. Hearing the Easter sermon and receiving Holy Communion was very meaningful. We are Methodists and this service was Episcopalian. I found many similarities with more pomp and circumstance. The Very Reverend Samuel T. Lloyd III delivered a great sermon about how Easter gives us something to hang onto when times are hard. To summarize, he said that most earthly things lead to a dead end...the economy, the homeless, the less fortunate, etc. If this world is all that there is, then there is no hope. However, the blessing of the Resurrection of Jesus gives us all hope. He was very animated and began his sermon with several jokes. We are used to that with Preacher Tim. We said the Nicene Creed, which we have said on occasion at home. We received the Sacraments of Holy Communion. It is an experience that I will always remember. Sometimes doing the same things in a different place or situation makes me more aware.
We then went foward and received Holy Communion. The Blood of Christ was not the grape juice we were accustomed to, but wine. When we were on our way back to our seats, Whitman said "That did taste like grape juice, it tasted more like cough medicine." When I told him that it was wine, his only concern was that we had broken the law. Children are not supposed to drink wine. I told him I thought we'd be ok. Then he said he was glad because thought they had used out-of-date grape juice.
By the way, both boys looked very handsome in their Easter outfits; however, I have very few pictures of them because we were absolutely freezing. I do have some great pictures of them huddled up in the very beautiful black winter coats with the hoods pulled up over their heads!! Oh well.
After church, we decided to return to the hotel and change into warmer clothes. We were all starving because our meal schedule has been crazy. So we changed and then ate at Ted's Montana Grille. I think it is owned by Ted Turner. It was the first real meal we actually sat down and ate since we had been in town. It was great. Jody had bison pot roast. The rest of us had old standards of steakhouses. Again, we didn't eat until 3:30.
We then walked to the metro station and went to Arlington National Cemetery. I think we all really enjoyed our visit. We decided to take the bus tour since it was so cold. We rode to Kennedy's grave site and got off the bus. Then we went to the Tomb of the Unknown. We watched the changing of the guard. That is a really neat thing to witness. We then went to Arlington House. We didn't get to go in but we walked along the gardens and looked out over the city from this very high point. The wind had died down and the afternoon was really nice so we decided to walk down through the cemetery. Just seeing the mass of tombstones is just so amazing. We did see one thing that particularly struck me. A man and a women were sitting in lawn chairs (like I take to the baseball field ) in front of a grave. It was probably their son. For me, Arlington is a place of history. For them it is a place of grieving. It just reminded me that this place is an active cemetary. There are people dying everyday to protect our freedom. What an awesome way to recognize their service. I think everyone should visit Arlington.
As we walked out of the cemetery, we (Jody) decided that we would walk across the Arlington Memorial Bridge back into DC. When we crossed the bridge, we were behind the Lincoln Memorial. We (He) decided that we would walk to the Foggy Bottom metro station. The boys were really beginning to melt down.(Not an appropriate word since we did see temps out of the 40's today, but you know what I mean!) All Whit has wanted to do is catch a cab. I don't know what he expects that to be like, but he knows he wants to do it. Haden is just hurting from head to toe. For those that know him, you know this happens quite often. So we walked about 400 blocks to find the metro station.
As we were leaving the Mall, we walked through the Vietnam War Memorial. We may have to do it again. We were all so tired at this point that we didn't really take time to look at it. It was also very crowded.
For those that know me, you know I can occasionally panic. Okay, I panic often. One fear that I have is walking around a city and wandering into the wrong neighborhood. I have a pretty good sense of direction, so I can usually find my way around. Once I know what to expect, I'm fine. I'm usually the one in the lead. However, Jody decided to take over as tour guide when he chose this alternate route to Foggy Bottom. He can also tell when I am about to go into panic mode. Everything always turns out fine, but I am ready if it ever doesn't. He could tell I was getting uneasy on our excursion. We made it to the metro stop just fine. Panic over!
The metro stop what right outside the doors of George Washington University Hospital. When I saw it, I told Jody that we needed to stop in and visit Britany Mikel Daniel. I don't really know her, but I have kept up with her via her blog. She has been in the hospital in Washington for almost a month because her water broke when she was on a business trip to DC. She is now almost 28 weeks pregnant. I couldn't literally be steps outside the hospital and not pop in. We had a nice visit. Keep her (and Beau) in your prayers. That is a very small room to be confined to for an indefinite amount of time.
So finally, we hopped on the metro and made our way back to Crystal City. Everyone has crashed. We are gearing up for another great day.
As far as today's favorites, Whitman and Jody liked Arlington Cemetery, Haden liked the Changing of the Guards, and my favorite was church at the National Cathedral.
On a side note, we have talked to the boys about how many of the places we are visiting are memorial for people who have died. We tell them to be respectful and not climb on them or run around while we are visiting. So now Haden asks me everytime we stop "Is this a memorial?" This is his code for "Can I stomp on these stones and make alot of noise or not?"At least he asks!!
Tomorrow should be a very exciting day. We are going to the Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House. I don't know who is more excited, me or the boys. We are also going to try and go to the Bureau of Engraving and a museum or two. Maybe the weather will cooperate a little more.
I'll give all of the details tomorrow night!!
Oh, and BTW, Haden is still texting so look out!!
We attended Easter Services at the National Cathedral. Truly an amazing experience. If you have ever been in this cathedral before, you know how grand it is. Hearing the Easter sermon and receiving Holy Communion was very meaningful. We are Methodists and this service was Episcopalian. I found many similarities with more pomp and circumstance. The Very Reverend Samuel T. Lloyd III delivered a great sermon about how Easter gives us something to hang onto when times are hard. To summarize, he said that most earthly things lead to a dead end...the economy, the homeless, the less fortunate, etc. If this world is all that there is, then there is no hope. However, the blessing of the Resurrection of Jesus gives us all hope. He was very animated and began his sermon with several jokes. We are used to that with Preacher Tim. We said the Nicene Creed, which we have said on occasion at home. We received the Sacraments of Holy Communion. It is an experience that I will always remember. Sometimes doing the same things in a different place or situation makes me more aware.
We then went foward and received Holy Communion. The Blood of Christ was not the grape juice we were accustomed to, but wine. When we were on our way back to our seats, Whitman said "That did taste like grape juice, it tasted more like cough medicine." When I told him that it was wine, his only concern was that we had broken the law. Children are not supposed to drink wine. I told him I thought we'd be ok. Then he said he was glad because thought they had used out-of-date grape juice.
By the way, both boys looked very handsome in their Easter outfits; however, I have very few pictures of them because we were absolutely freezing. I do have some great pictures of them huddled up in the very beautiful black winter coats with the hoods pulled up over their heads!! Oh well.
After church, we decided to return to the hotel and change into warmer clothes. We were all starving because our meal schedule has been crazy. So we changed and then ate at Ted's Montana Grille. I think it is owned by Ted Turner. It was the first real meal we actually sat down and ate since we had been in town. It was great. Jody had bison pot roast. The rest of us had old standards of steakhouses. Again, we didn't eat until 3:30.
We then walked to the metro station and went to Arlington National Cemetery. I think we all really enjoyed our visit. We decided to take the bus tour since it was so cold. We rode to Kennedy's grave site and got off the bus. Then we went to the Tomb of the Unknown. We watched the changing of the guard. That is a really neat thing to witness. We then went to Arlington House. We didn't get to go in but we walked along the gardens and looked out over the city from this very high point. The wind had died down and the afternoon was really nice so we decided to walk down through the cemetery. Just seeing the mass of tombstones is just so amazing. We did see one thing that particularly struck me. A man and a women were sitting in lawn chairs (like I take to the baseball field ) in front of a grave. It was probably their son. For me, Arlington is a place of history. For them it is a place of grieving. It just reminded me that this place is an active cemetary. There are people dying everyday to protect our freedom. What an awesome way to recognize their service. I think everyone should visit Arlington.
As we walked out of the cemetery, we (Jody) decided that we would walk across the Arlington Memorial Bridge back into DC. When we crossed the bridge, we were behind the Lincoln Memorial. We (He) decided that we would walk to the Foggy Bottom metro station. The boys were really beginning to melt down.(Not an appropriate word since we did see temps out of the 40's today, but you know what I mean!) All Whit has wanted to do is catch a cab. I don't know what he expects that to be like, but he knows he wants to do it. Haden is just hurting from head to toe. For those that know him, you know this happens quite often. So we walked about 400 blocks to find the metro station.
As we were leaving the Mall, we walked through the Vietnam War Memorial. We may have to do it again. We were all so tired at this point that we didn't really take time to look at it. It was also very crowded.
For those that know me, you know I can occasionally panic. Okay, I panic often. One fear that I have is walking around a city and wandering into the wrong neighborhood. I have a pretty good sense of direction, so I can usually find my way around. Once I know what to expect, I'm fine. I'm usually the one in the lead. However, Jody decided to take over as tour guide when he chose this alternate route to Foggy Bottom. He can also tell when I am about to go into panic mode. Everything always turns out fine, but I am ready if it ever doesn't. He could tell I was getting uneasy on our excursion. We made it to the metro stop just fine. Panic over!
The metro stop what right outside the doors of George Washington University Hospital. When I saw it, I told Jody that we needed to stop in and visit Britany Mikel Daniel. I don't really know her, but I have kept up with her via her blog. She has been in the hospital in Washington for almost a month because her water broke when she was on a business trip to DC. She is now almost 28 weeks pregnant. I couldn't literally be steps outside the hospital and not pop in. We had a nice visit. Keep her (and Beau) in your prayers. That is a very small room to be confined to for an indefinite amount of time.
So finally, we hopped on the metro and made our way back to Crystal City. Everyone has crashed. We are gearing up for another great day.
As far as today's favorites, Whitman and Jody liked Arlington Cemetery, Haden liked the Changing of the Guards, and my favorite was church at the National Cathedral.
On a side note, we have talked to the boys about how many of the places we are visiting are memorial for people who have died. We tell them to be respectful and not climb on them or run around while we are visiting. So now Haden asks me everytime we stop "Is this a memorial?" This is his code for "Can I stomp on these stones and make alot of noise or not?"At least he asks!!
Tomorrow should be a very exciting day. We are going to the Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House. I don't know who is more excited, me or the boys. We are also going to try and go to the Bureau of Engraving and a museum or two. Maybe the weather will cooperate a little more.
I'll give all of the details tomorrow night!!
Oh, and BTW, Haden is still texting so look out!!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
I didn't plan for the trip to begin with a trip to the emergency room!
You plan and plan and then life throws you a curve ball. Thursday night after I had packed, I was writing down some phone numbers and directions and I heard Haden crying. When I went to check on him he said his ear hurt. I think in his 6 1/2 years, he has had one ear infection.
Our plan was to leave by 7:00 am Friday. I knew this earache had the potential to throw a kink into my well laid out plans. So Haden and I made our way the the ER about 11:00. By midnight he had a dose of antibiotics and a prescription, and we were home. In bed by 12:30 am. Needless to say, I did not rise and shine as early as I had planned. So we were ready to roll by 7:30. Not too bad, just 30 minutes late. But then we had to get Haden's medicine. By 8:15 we were finally off.
And we drove and drove,..........and drove and drove.....and drove some more. And it rained and rained...and you get the point.
Finally, about 10 hours later we reached our destination for the evening. We stayed with my cousin Glinda, and her husband, Bill and daughter, Natalie in Mebane, NC. I was so excited to see them and catch up. It had been way too long. She fixed wonderful North Carolina BBQ, slaw and a potato casserole to die for. The kids enjoyed watching a movie, playing cards with Natalie, and harassing, I mean playing with their dog Bella. After a much needed good night's sleep we were on the road by 8:30.
We were so glad to see the sun. We had about 5 hours to travel, but compared to Friday, it wasn't that bad. However, we did find the rain along the way, and it brought with it wind and cooler temperatures. Even so, we were very glad to finally arrive in DC about 1:30.
After unpacking all of our worldly posessions (see earlier post) we were off to the metro. I guess we looked clueless (and we were), because the attendent quickly came to our rescue. We now have our metro passes for the week, so we don't have to worry about that any more. After one afternoon of riding the metro, we are getting the system. I think we'll be okay.
Our first stop in DC was Union Station. We were looking to take a bus tour, but the one we wanted was no longer available because it was so late in the afternoon. So we grabbed a late lunch, jumped back on the metro, and headed for the Smithsonian stop. As we ascended from underground we immediately saw the Capital in front of us and the Washington Monument behind us. What a sight!
We began our walk down the National Mall because Whitman was dying to get close to the Washington Monument. We walked around it, touched it, took pictures. We hope to go up in it later. We then began to make our way to the Lincoln Memorial. On the way we stopped at the WW2 Memorial. It is truly a magnificent memorial. I can see why they are having the honor flights so the veterans can see it. It greatly honors their service to our country.
Finally we walked along the edge of the reflecting pool (and I do mean on the edge) to the Lincoln Memorial. It is breathtaking! Lincoln is so grand as he sits and looks out over Washington. Haden said, "Mommy, was he really that big?"
We decided to make our way back to the metro and to the hotel. As we walked back down the mall, we stopped at the Korean War Memorial. The soldiers are so life like. It amazes me how they can make all of these monuments and memorials so unique. They are all so different, but they express the same emotions of graditude and repect.
So we made it back to the hotel a little after 7:00 and decided to just chill in the room. We ate a late lunch so we just snacked for supper. Everyone was (is) pretty tired so maybe it can be an early night. Today was a get acclimated day. Tomorrow we will hit the ground running.
Whitman's favorite thing that he saw today was the Korean Memorial. Haden's was seeing a black duck in the reflecting pool and "that big old thing" aka the Washington Monument. Jody's was the Lincoln Memorial. My favorite was the WW2 Memorial. I also enjoyed getting to experience these places with my kids (and my husband).
A few side notes:
The kids did extremely well considering we drove 14 hours in 1 1/2 days. They watched movies, colored, played the DS. Haden even put together a puzzle. We played a few family car games. We had time to do alot.
Haden discovered a new pasttime. He is now text messaging. It was so funny watching him sound out the words and trying to spell them. He actually did pretty well. I apologize to those who received many posts from him this morning. I want to apologize in advance to everyone else. If you know Haden, you know he loves a phone. There is no telling what he will do with his new texting skills.
You all know how kids love to explore hotel rooms. Well, Whitman was trying to figure out the television. In the process, he managed to buy a television show. Thank goodness it was family appropriate. The nice lady at the front desk took care of his little accident and I don't think we will have to worry about him doing that again. The look on his face when he realized he had just purchased a show was priceless!
I am sorry that this post is so long. I've been without internet since we left town. Also, I am probably doing this blog more for me that anyone else. I want to record what we do and when we do them. If I don't do it day by day, it will all run together by the end. I also won't remember all of the funny ( and not so funny) things that are said and happen to us.
So tomorrow is Easter. We are off to the National Cathedral for Easter service and Arlington Cemetary tomorrow afternoon.
I'll give you the details later.
Until then......
Our plan was to leave by 7:00 am Friday. I knew this earache had the potential to throw a kink into my well laid out plans. So Haden and I made our way the the ER about 11:00. By midnight he had a dose of antibiotics and a prescription, and we were home. In bed by 12:30 am. Needless to say, I did not rise and shine as early as I had planned. So we were ready to roll by 7:30. Not too bad, just 30 minutes late. But then we had to get Haden's medicine. By 8:15 we were finally off.
And we drove and drove,..........and drove and drove.....and drove some more. And it rained and rained...and you get the point.
Finally, about 10 hours later we reached our destination for the evening. We stayed with my cousin Glinda, and her husband, Bill and daughter, Natalie in Mebane, NC. I was so excited to see them and catch up. It had been way too long. She fixed wonderful North Carolina BBQ, slaw and a potato casserole to die for. The kids enjoyed watching a movie, playing cards with Natalie, and harassing, I mean playing with their dog Bella. After a much needed good night's sleep we were on the road by 8:30.
We were so glad to see the sun. We had about 5 hours to travel, but compared to Friday, it wasn't that bad. However, we did find the rain along the way, and it brought with it wind and cooler temperatures. Even so, we were very glad to finally arrive in DC about 1:30.
After unpacking all of our worldly posessions (see earlier post) we were off to the metro. I guess we looked clueless (and we were), because the attendent quickly came to our rescue. We now have our metro passes for the week, so we don't have to worry about that any more. After one afternoon of riding the metro, we are getting the system. I think we'll be okay.
Our first stop in DC was Union Station. We were looking to take a bus tour, but the one we wanted was no longer available because it was so late in the afternoon. So we grabbed a late lunch, jumped back on the metro, and headed for the Smithsonian stop. As we ascended from underground we immediately saw the Capital in front of us and the Washington Monument behind us. What a sight!
We began our walk down the National Mall because Whitman was dying to get close to the Washington Monument. We walked around it, touched it, took pictures. We hope to go up in it later. We then began to make our way to the Lincoln Memorial. On the way we stopped at the WW2 Memorial. It is truly a magnificent memorial. I can see why they are having the honor flights so the veterans can see it. It greatly honors their service to our country.
Finally we walked along the edge of the reflecting pool (and I do mean on the edge) to the Lincoln Memorial. It is breathtaking! Lincoln is so grand as he sits and looks out over Washington. Haden said, "Mommy, was he really that big?"
We decided to make our way back to the metro and to the hotel. As we walked back down the mall, we stopped at the Korean War Memorial. The soldiers are so life like. It amazes me how they can make all of these monuments and memorials so unique. They are all so different, but they express the same emotions of graditude and repect.
So we made it back to the hotel a little after 7:00 and decided to just chill in the room. We ate a late lunch so we just snacked for supper. Everyone was (is) pretty tired so maybe it can be an early night. Today was a get acclimated day. Tomorrow we will hit the ground running.
Whitman's favorite thing that he saw today was the Korean Memorial. Haden's was seeing a black duck in the reflecting pool and "that big old thing" aka the Washington Monument. Jody's was the Lincoln Memorial. My favorite was the WW2 Memorial. I also enjoyed getting to experience these places with my kids (and my husband).
A few side notes:
The kids did extremely well considering we drove 14 hours in 1 1/2 days. They watched movies, colored, played the DS. Haden even put together a puzzle. We played a few family car games. We had time to do alot.
Haden discovered a new pasttime. He is now text messaging. It was so funny watching him sound out the words and trying to spell them. He actually did pretty well. I apologize to those who received many posts from him this morning. I want to apologize in advance to everyone else. If you know Haden, you know he loves a phone. There is no telling what he will do with his new texting skills.
You all know how kids love to explore hotel rooms. Well, Whitman was trying to figure out the television. In the process, he managed to buy a television show. Thank goodness it was family appropriate. The nice lady at the front desk took care of his little accident and I don't think we will have to worry about him doing that again. The look on his face when he realized he had just purchased a show was priceless!
I am sorry that this post is so long. I've been without internet since we left town. Also, I am probably doing this blog more for me that anyone else. I want to record what we do and when we do them. If I don't do it day by day, it will all run together by the end. I also won't remember all of the funny ( and not so funny) things that are said and happen to us.
So tomorrow is Easter. We are off to the National Cathedral for Easter service and Arlington Cemetary tomorrow afternoon.
I'll give you the details later.
Until then......
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