Washington DC

Last week we had an awesome chance to go back to DC for the entire week. We had a career conference for returned Peace Corps volunteers. So, we attended the conference by day and did a little sightseeing by night. Luckily my dad had some business out there so we were able to go together and stayed in his work apartment. It was so great to spend some time out there, even if it was a little short. Here's a brief overview of what we did and saw.

Monday - We spent majority of the day traveling. Once we arrived we got to visit my brother Jeromy and his family (Patrice, Braydon, and Aylin). Their kids are so cute, but unfortunately I didn't even think to take pictures.

Tuesday - We spent all day at the conference. But, that evening Dad took us on a sight seeing drive. We stopped at the Air Force monument (below) next to the Pentagon. This is where my Dad was on September 11th 2001 so it has a little extra meaning to it. Here's a picture of us saluting. It looks like mine could use a little work. We also drove through downtown DC. We didn't get pictures because it got dark, but it was beautiful to see the city at night.

Wednesday - After another long day of meetings we went to visit the National Cathedral (below). We also went through Arlington Cemetery and Dad took us to some of the spots where he spent a lot of time studying and working while we lived out there.

Thursday - We had free time during the afternoon so we visited some of the sights. We went to the White House and then walked to the National Mall. We started at the Washington Monument. From there we had a great view of the Lincoln Memorial a mile or so away. We started walking towards it, but I got tired and we never made it. We had a special Birthday lunch for James and he opened his presents before heading back to the conference!

Friday - James attended the conference but I had the morning free to be a tourist. I went into the Library of Congress and walked around the Capitol (below) towards the Botanical Garden. I enjoyed the gardens, but it kind of made me miss the flowers and fruits of Thailand! Oh well. Lastly, I made another stop at the Arlington National Cemetery (below). It's such a peaceful yet sobering place.

Saturday - Before flying home we went to the Washington DC temple. I've loved this temple ever since I was little and it was fun for James to be able to experience it. We enjoyed walking around the grounds and eating our picnic lunch.

Overall it was a great week. I could have enjoyed spending more time there, but I guess that's a good reason to go back!