Reflection

No, we have not fallen off the face of the Earth. We are on vacation. Or wait, our real life is more like vacation. These last days have required a tremendous amount of energy without any ocean breezes or Pina Coladas. There should be a different word for trips that are more about sightseeing than relaxing.

I will have many, MANY detailed stories to tell about the sights we have seen, the food we have eaten and the people with whom we have shared these sights and meals. Until I am able to really delve into our adventures, I share a few mental notes I have been making.

• 13, 11, 9, & 7 are ideal travel ages – no diaper bags or strollers; miles of walking are tolerated; seeing history “in person” is academically relevant; hanging out with one’s parents is still 92% cool.
• 13, 11, 9 & 7 are the ages when kids remember what you do with them and say to them. I’m glad their dad showed them the Arlington Cemetery. I’m glad I shared my favorite sculptures in the Art museum.
• When you visit cemeteries with kids, they want to talk about “when you die.” It is frightening that my dears already have plans for my possessions and ideas about where they might “place” me. Should I be worried that they can discuss this topic with such lightness and humor?
• NEVER leave my SLR camera at home again - even if I think it will be easier, more convenient, or less bulky. Point-and-shoots just leave me frustratingly limited.
• Official buildings (like The Supreme Court) make feel very nervous that I will unknowingly break a law on the spot.
• Regardless of how “un-cute” my outfits become when I add my running shoes, my feet, knees, and hips will thank me later.
• Tricky and time-consuming coordination to see old friends is ALWAYS worth the effort.
• Regardless of the awe-inspiring sights I expose my children to, they will be equally entertained by feeding squirrels.
• Washington D.C. represents so much of what is GOOD in our country. If you are ever losing faith: a headstone of a fallen soldier, Judy’s ruby-red slippers, or the Wright’s air plane will remind you of the creativity, the strength and the passion of the American people.