Day Two in D.C.

Day Two in D.C.

Though we once again got a late start and didn’t leave the hotel till around 11:00 this morning, today was a day packed full of adventure and memories. We began the day by experiencing the Metro system for our very first time. Our first stop was Arlington National Cemetery. Though I had been there before with my 8^th grade class, this was a different experience. We didn’t have any of the classic 8^th grade drama or mischief, nor did we have to go at the same pace as other people, or walk constantly in the same areas as others. Oh, how glad I was to not be in 8^th grade again, once I saw the many classes on their trips in the Cemetery goofing around and looking bored by something that is, and should be very important.

What a humbling experience it is to walk through the paths surrounded by thousands of graves – of those who gave their lives for our country. It really makes you see all that people have done to defend our country and our rights, and appreciate our freedom much more. I had the realization today that we can be so petty about things not being “fair,” or our country not being truly “free.” To think of the people who have willingly given their lives serving our country makes a person recognize how fortunate we really are.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
In the Cemetery, we got to see the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This also allows you to see and appreciate our Nation’s freedom, as you witness the dedication of these brave men and women to protecting others and serving in some of the most brutal situations.

 

 

 

 

 

           

We spent about 3 ½ hours at Arlington National Cemetery today, then walked across the Arlington Memorial Bridge to Lincoln Memorial and other memorials in the area. The Lincoln Memorial truly is quite incredible. It’s as if Lincoln is staring down at you from his large chair.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

After visiting the memorials, we walked all the way back up to a Metro station that was near our hotel. We got on and went to the Union Station for a late supper. By the time we got there, most things were closed, so we went to a cute retro diner called Johnny Rockets.

We walked back to the Metro Station after supper and headed to the United States Capitol building. It was beautifully lit up in the dark, starry sky.

Today we walked about ten miles! It was great!