O say can you see. . . .

Behind this display in the American History Smithsonian in Washington DC is an exhibit dedicated to the national anthem, and the flag that inspired the song.  Although pictures were not allowed in the actual exhibit, it was a definite must-see.  While we were not able to steel away to Fort McHenry, we hope to visit it another trip.  How grateful I am for our national anthem and all it stands for.  Truly inspiring words:  http://www.poetry-archive.com/k/the_star_spangled_banner.html

Prior to our trip to DC, I started reading about Benjamin Franklin's 13 virtues.  I didn't make it through the book, but am grateful he was committed to the American cause.

The Hamilton's, some good friends of mine from Utah State (Go Aggies!), live near Arlington, Virginia where we were staying.  One of the afternoon's Emily, Abby and I went on a walking tour of Teddy Roosevelt island.  I can only imagine how beautiful it must be in the summer with all the green foliage.  Here is Abby in a hollowed out tree we found on the island.

Mmmmm -mmmmmm - mmmmmm!  BBQ :)  It was one of Dan's co-worker's birthday while we were in DC in January.  For his birthday dinner, we went to the swanky blues/bbq place in the DC underground.  Let's just say, fatty-goodness . . . lots of it!