Washington DC for Toddlers

Our darling almost 2 year old niece came to visit last week. She was smart and brought her beautiful mom with her. She spent a lot of time doing this.

And this...

She wasn't a morning person and certainly didn't want any early morning close-ups.

She also spent a lot of time following around her big cousin Birdie. She called her, "Dos." She also spent a fair amount of time saying, "Here, Dos. Here, Dos."

Of course, we took her downtown to see all the patriotic sites. She particularly liked any that involved water.

Shortly after this adorable picture we attempted to broaden her horizons by showing her more great works of art. She was less than enthusiastic. In fact, as she loudly let us know exactly what she thought of art when compared to playing in the water, we were asked to immediately exit the National Gallery of Art. The security guard referred to her squeals of protest as, "That is just totally unacceptable." We nodded in agreement as we darted for the exit.

Luckily, we found a few more water features at the Botanical Gardens. We didn't let her climb in there either.

She was quite impressive as she fought off the older kids so she could carry the watering can. She might have learned the word flag that day, but mostly we'll remember her joy of playing in the water.

The Beautiful Cherry Blossoms, Part 2

A friend and I took our kids back downtown on Monday. Even though it was overcast and drizzly at times, you can't deny the beauty of thousands of cherry trees exploding with the promise of spring.

It was a great quote to end our day. It's a quote by Franklin Delanor Roosevelt. It's found in Room 4 of his memorial on the Tidal Basin. It is a gorgeous and emotionally moving memorial of a man who led America through some very dark hours.

Happy Independence Day!!!

Happy 4th of July everyone! I hope everyone has a great day eating, napping, swimming, and celebrating. As recent additions to the greater Washington, DC area we're feeling even more festive and patriotic this year.

We're going to our very first block party. I've made a great cake, deviled eggs, and the kids (only the youngest will actually do this) get to decorate their bikes for a neighborhood bike parade. Call me "Apple Pie" and I couldn't feel anymore American today.


I hope you have a great celebration where ever you are today. Here are a few pictures from previous trips downtown. I think Washington, DC is a beautiful city.


The National Archives building. It was our first stop with my Godson last week. He's only seen National Treasure about 76 times, so this was his highlight. I'd show you a picture of the Declaration of Independence, but if you've been to the Archives you know they keep it really dark inside. It sure makes for excellent photo ops.

Last September we saw the President land on the front lawn of the Whitehouse. Another highlight day! We were at the top of the hill beside the Washington Monument when the three helicopters circled, and one landed.

Finally, the Jefferson Memorial, because it's my favorite. I have loved it since I was a child being dragged around DC in the August heat by my parents each summer on our way to visit relatives.