The Capitol

We all had been so looking forward to the Capitol tour. Our Congressman and neighbor, Cliff Stearns, arranged for one of his interns to take us on a tour of the Capitol building which included the Supreme Court chambers and the actual House of Representatives floor and the Rotunda.

We got to stand on the "star" which is the exact center of Washington, DC. The artwork in the ceilings and along the walls is breathtaking. Lady Freedom is the highest status in Washington, DC (with the exception of the Washington Monument and the US Postal Tower). The exceptions are permitted because they were constructed before that ordinance went into effect.

Did you know that the Senate and House of Representatives are in different wings of the Capitol? Did you also know that the Rayford and 2 other buildings are where each congressman's office is located? Did you also know that the congressman have their own private subway system and private car so they can make it to the voting floor within 2 to 3 minutes? Did you know that we also got to ride in Congressman Stearns' private subway car? Shhh....that's a secret! :)

Thank you, Congressman Stearns for such a cool tour.

Arlington

As if the National Cathedral and Ford's Theatre were not enough to make you tear, we then ventured to Arlington National Cemetary. From the Arlington House, to JFK's eternal flame, to Bobby Kennedy's grave, to the tomb of the Unknowns, and across the Avenue of Heroes, these hallowed grounds speak of extraordinary courage and conviction. Being the child of a career military man, patriotism has been deeply instilled within me. Walking these pathways with tears streaming down my face with my husband and children at my side, I am humbled by the strength, courage, and conviction of the many men, women, and their families who epitomize all that is right with our great country. So, on this Memorial Day, I realize the words "Thank You" seem to barely scratch the surface of my gratitude. I hope they barely scratch the surface of your gratitude as well.

Touring DC

This morning we were off to tour by shuttle the city. First stop was the National Cathedral. What an amazing architectural beauty! Pictures do not do this national gem justice.










Anyone passing through its wrought iron doors into the santuary cannot help but be touched by the peace given to the soul.




A little later on we stopped at Ford's Theatre which is where President Abraham Lincoln was short by John Wilkes Booth. Booth was a local actor who was part of an ancient day terror cell. We also were allowed to visit the home across the street from the theatre where Lincoln eventually succumbed to his gunshot wounds. The wisdom and compassion of President Lincoln in dealing with the Civil War and in dealing with the reunification of our country are characteristics that continue to reach through time to teach us even today.

Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon was our destination for today. Being from Florida, the concept of a basement is foreign to us. So, imagine the culture shock to be in a city on top of an underground city. Wow! The Metro was almost as cool as the White House. We are proud of ourselves for navigating the Metro all the way to Virginia and Mount Vernon. The view from the back porch of Mount Vernon overlooking the Potomac is breathtaking. George sure knew how to pick real estate! He and Martha are laid to rest on the grounds which speaks volumes as to how much he loved his home.

Washington, DC

The White House
The Treasury Department
An art museum on the National Mall



We couldn't wait to check out DC. So, after unloading our gear at the Churchill Hotel near Georgetown, we went walking. We went by the White House (and security means it when they say no photographing them), the Treasury Dept, and across the National Mall. We are really looking forward to Mount Vernon, the Capitol building, the National Cathedral, and Ford's Theatre.

Washington, DC

The gangs are all here! The boys (Josh, Spencer, Carl, Luke & Connor); the Register family at the "summer" home: Mike & Julie on the Metro; Spencer, Huey & Connor at Representative Cliff Stearns desk

On May 28th, 2006, the Craig family and the Register family flew to Washington, DC for a wonderful vacation. After visiting so many wonderful sites, we came away with a renewed sense of pride in our country and for the forefathers that shaped its early development.

Easter, 2006

Mikayla is so pretty in her new Easter outfit from our neighbor, Mrs. Karol. She popped over to surprise Mikayla with her new dress, bonnet, and shoes.
Mommy & Mikayla in our Easter dresses ready
to leave for church.
Okay, Daddy, I have the keys...let's go!