Student Artwork:  Ryan 1 & Ryan 2

This has been a most wonderful day – everything has gone perfectly.  The line in front of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing was unusually short, so we were able to enter in less than an hour.  It is always so hard to see all of that money so close and yet so far.  All were careful to keep their hands away from the alarmed ceiling, especially when raising their hands to ask questions!  Finally, the gift shop was a favorite of everyone where many of the kids bought “money”.

Next, we took a sightseeing detour through historic Alexandria on our way to Mount Vernon.  This is a beautiful part of the DC area with over forty percent pre-Civil War buildings.  We learned the bronze plaques on the older buildings showed the owners had paid for fire insurance, a business begun by Ben Franklin.  He also started the first fire department; however, if you did not pay for the insurance, the fire department would not put out the fire at your house.  A very smart man!

For the last eight years that I can remember, our visit to Mount Vernon has been in the pouring rain.  Today seemed like it would follow the pattern.  As we drove out to General Washington’s home, the sky was black, the wind was blowing, and drops of rain were beginning to fall.   We quickly went into the food court to eat our lunch.  What a surprise greeted us as we finished and prepared to visit the house.  The wind was still blowing, but the sky was crystal clear.  The leaves swirled around in small whirlwinds and so did our kids.  Emily’s grandparents, aunt and two cousins met us for a wonderful, but too short visit. It took a long time to walk through the house because the students had so many great questions.

We left Mount Vernon in time to make our appointment with Senator Feinstein’s office in the Senate Office Building.  We have always had tours given by Congressman Dreier’s office, but they were too busy this year.  The Senate tour is very different.  We were able to ride the monorail cars on the thirty-second trip that the senators take from their office buildings to the Capitol.  What fun!!!!  I think everyone realized what a treat this was.

Tonight was our “prime rib dinner’ at the Orleans House.  We were joined by Kathie Turin, her brother and sister-in-law. Everyone loved their dinner and it was great seeing family and friends.  We finished our day with a spooky ghost tour brought to life by our excellent guides as they took us through the oldest parts of Alexandria.  Another favorite for everyone!

Tomorrow, a visit to Arlington National Cemetery where we will participate in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

But, for now, it’s time for sleep! 

Kathy & the Gang