Saturdays, sun and national monuments

After a delayed start to the drive, caused by sleeping late and a slow to get served breakfast, we drove two plus hours to Virginia. We went with my cousin and his family to DC via the Metro. Even with the heat, we were excited to walk the streets and see the monuments.

Our first stop was the Smithsonian of American History. The many exhibits proved too much for the boys, and after wandering through a number of them, we decided to head for the mall. The walk was hot, but we didn't let it slow us down.

Watching the boys take in the height of Washington Monument, the epicness of the Lincoln and World War II Memorials was something. Almost like seeing it through their eyes. Nothing could compare to seeing them grasp the enormity of the Vietnam Wall Memorial. The vast number of names on panel after panel; it's impossible to not be moved to tears. They walked away with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made during that war, and the ones that continue to be every day.

The ride back to my cousin's was a great end to the day. The banter and laughter between my sons, regardless of any part of it being at my expense, is something I will never forget. I love my little family, and I'm grateful for each and every experience that brings us closer together.