The Button

Whenever we go downtown we like to stop by the beautiful White House. (Parking nearby is convenient and free on sundays, after all.) Philip, in particular, likes to weave his way through the visitors to this strange little button.

Nothing ever happens, but we joke that someday the gate might just swing open.

Last weekend we stopped by the Ronald Reagan building for the International Children's Festival. Unfortunately, Thailand was not represented, but there were a lot of fun activities. We tried things out at Fiji, Egypt and Japan to name a few.

Crumbs was right around the corner, so we could not resist.

Supersize Sunday

Toddler Trot Contender

 Wow, what a Sunday! We woke up at crack o' dawn and drove to Maryland for an action-packed morning. My husband (and about 2,999 others) had a 10K challenge, which I must say he ran easily, followed by a fun run with little P and a 'Toddler Trot' for Nate. It was so much fun, and such a gorgeous day that we drove in to DC, still in our running clothes. Not that I could have parted my oldest from his award and running shirt.

The National Mall was lively as usual. Um, those people on the left DID have clothing on. I swear.

I had to take a picture of the boys, I was so proud of them today. There would be racing pictures here, but if you follow me on Facebook, it would be overkill. You can thank me later.

Dramatic Moment!!

I never take anything seriously....

We walked to the Enid Hauptman Garden and took a nice break there. This Magnolia tree smelled amazing, so amazing I started snapping pictures of the flowers on it. You might have thought I was crazy, but EVERYONE stopped at this little tree. It was positively entrancing.

Inside the Freer Gallery of Art, we quickly perused the Asian artifacts. Which was perfect with two active boys. The pieces were few and carefully selected, so it wasn't overwhelming or boring. Some were even whimsical.

Like the 'Shrek' urn.

Dreamworks, we are on to you!

Year of the Dragon

Sundays usually find us in the city. Its a nice balance-saturdays are for nature hikes, fresh air, stretching our legs in the country. Sundays are for sightseeing in the District. There are a million free, fun things to do downtown and little P is thrilled about riding the Metro every week. Little boys....

This sunday we went to the New Year celebration on 6th Street, which I must say was a great family event! We got there just in time for the parade.

I just loved this little lion.

They handed out these paper dragons to the children. We had two, but I gave one away to a little girl that didn't get one.

We had a front row seat to the dragon dancing and the giant firecracker.

And we stopped off at Crumbs for some giant cupcakes. (Sorry Cupcake Charlie, these were better!)

On the way home, I noticed a gentleman sitting across from us on the Metro wearing a red striped knit hat, doing the crossword. We left the station and walked to our car a few moments later and came upon a small group of people, standing around a man. He was lying on the ground, face down. We had passed so many sleeping in doorways during the day, that by 6pm I was almost numb to the sight of someone laying on a sidewalk. Almost.

We walked closer. And then we saw the red hat.

I tell you this story, because I love the man that rushed to his side and assisted the man as he came back to conciousness. And because I was touched that perfect strangers were there to help, to call an ambulance, and by the worry that was on their faces. And because I still worry if the man who fell was ok, because when he could finally speak he told my husband that there was no one we could call for him and that he lived alone.

Since then, I feel reassured that people are basically good. And my husband, though he talks a tough line, is a very kind and caring person who will help his fellow man without hesitation.

My Weekend in Instagram

Hiking at Sky Meadow State Park.

Philip, a lollipop, and a vine to swing on. The outcome was better than expected.

Why does this remind me of the Wyeth piece, "Christina's World"?

We visit Arlington National Cemetery often. We walk and think, think and walk, and talk to our kids about service, sacrifice, pride, integrity.

Paid a visit to "The Great Emancipator" and Nathan goofed around. (Hat and matching sweater underneath by me, of course.)

Supped on some awesome soup. If I say so myself. Chix, chorizo, kale and winter squash.