E Pluribus Unum-

"OUT OF MANY, ONE"

Did you know that is our Nations motto? I didn't, but I like it.

So I have been meaning to post about our last week in D.C. for a little while now, but haven't gotten around to it. We started by going to Union Station. It was so neat to learn the history of the building and see the AMAZING archicture. It felt a lot like a super fancy airport with gates and terminals, except of course for trains. Then we had a great time meeting up with my brother and his family again to tour the capital. It was a shorter tour than I had anticipated and you only went through a few rooms, but it was really amazing, and there is such a feeling of pride for our country. I am grateful to have had the chance to visit these historical landmarks and reflect my many thanks to the founders of our nation, and all those who fought and still fight for our freedoms. In many ways I need to do better about supporting our nation.

(Oh the life Grace leads!) We also went to Arlington cemetery and the mood there is so reverent. The day we were there it was raining such a soft mist and we felt like the only ones there. I was inspired and surprised by how many many many headstones there were. It is a beautiful place with beautiful trees, flowers, and rolling green hills. We watched the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier and that was really neat. (Aside from the few glares we got because of a noisy Grace) Do you know about The Tomb of the Unknowns?? It's amazing. A soldier guards it, 24/7, rain or shine. To guard it you have to go through an eight month long training where you are totally sequestered. No electronics. The soldier also makes an oath to not partake of alcohol or cigarettes for that time and the rest of his/her life. Each soldier must be in superb physical condition, possess an unblemished military record and be between 5 feet, 10 inches and 6 feet, 4 inches tall.

Anyways, now we are home. The flight home went well and in the last week and a half we've all been to the dentist, done our sping cleaning, and gotten reacquainted with Walla Walla. The time adjustment has been a difficult one, but I think we're all back to normal. FINALLY! Sunday was the first day we weren't all awake before 6:00 am and in bed before 9:30 pm.

Nolan built this sandbox for the kids and I love it as much as they do. Keeps them occupied while I cook dinner. We have a change of clothes for them to wear when they are in it, so that the house doesn't fill with sand as well. There you have it, we had a great time in D.C. I miss a park we would always go to, not cooking breakfast or dinner, housekeeping, seeing something new each day, and watching the the hustle and bustle of a big city. It's great to be home too: Seeing our friends, having more space, and the kids toys. Until next time. . .