(Washington, part 6)

After our day at the National Cathedral…Nana and Papa went back to the condo and we went back to the Dr. King Memorial. E needed to visit during the day. (To be true, so did I.)

How many times have I said, “I’ll never forget,” while writing about Washington DC? (Either too many or not enough, perhaps!)

As we wandered through the National Mall, alongside the reflecting pool, my heart nearly burst. It was a perfect fall day, about 75 degrees with the kind of breeze that ALWAYS, ALWAYS speaks of Jesus to me.

The city was alive, as we wandered through all the monuments, one last time. I couldn’t imagine how fun it would be if this were our regular biking route as the whole city seemed to be out and active. There was a volleyball tournament on the lawn beside the Washington Monument, runners, bikers and roller bladers who breezed past, greeting and encouraging one another. My son got some encouragement of his own after his backflip in front of the Washington Monument!

We finished our stroll at Dr. King’s monument and it was a whole different kind of breathtaking in the light of dusk. Both daughter and I couldn’t speak (until a crew of middle schoolers descended loudly and happily.)Then we exited quickly to the gift shop!

The next morning, we were all excited to head to the Smithsonian. We had decided to visit the Museum of American History and then decide what was next.

I will start by saying how fantastic all the museums are in Washington. I’ve never seen anything like it. I imagine you could look at something different every day for a year and not begin to see it all.

As is our custom, my daughter and I darted into the gift shop upon arrival. We emerged with Mr. Rogers socks and a baseball hat, both quickly becoming treasured memories. Then we took an elevator upstairs…as the doors opened, we were greeted with the sounds of Whitney Houston singing the Star Spangled Banner and the sounds of moments, performances, impactful moments and memories that, as you walked further in to the display, you may be able to see or even touch! We crowded around the Jumbo-tron when a snippet of Hamilton appeared, instantly singing along. My parents and I winced, watching Greg Louganis hit his head on video from the 1988 Olympics. As we reminisced about our Olympic memories, I turned, a red sparkle glinting at me…

As I turned from the movie at the entrance of the Entertainment Nation (Nación del espectáculo,”), my eyes fell on a plexiglass case: inside which, sat the authentic Ruby Red Slippers…

Growing up, The Wizard of Oz was always shown on TV, one time each year. It was family tradition to pop popcorn (along with a huge treat, our OWN can of Coke.) I had a love/hate relationship with this movie, at least as a little kid…did that witch scare anyone else? Maybe it was just me. I would pull the white Afghan my grandma made over my head and watch through the threads as the Wicked Witch of the West’s cackling, ominous voice filled the screen and speakers. As I’ve grown, it is a sweet memory with my sister and parents, similar to The Sound of Music!

To SEE these shoes in person that were so much a part of my growing up was simply, breathtaking…

We wandered, a trip through time, chronicling the world of entertainment, unable to really take it all in. From Indiana Jones’ famous fedora, Oprah’s gold plated microphone, Muhammad Ali’s Robe and original clothing from Hamilton, we all had a grand time!

It will come as no surprise, however, when I tell you that the moment I laid eyes on Mr. Rogers red sweater and blue sneakers, right next to Elmo, Oscar the Grouch and Rosita, was my favorite of that day… amazing! To stand just feet from the sweater his mother knitted for him, the worn blue tennis shoes he intentionally changed into to signal to his audience the shift from work to play, real to make-believe was surreal. Sesame Street too holds a special place in our hearts. My kids each have a favorite character, as do I. I have sweet, sweet memories of many episodes.

As our kids walked, wandered, oh’d and ahhh’d, the curious truth was this: they were seeing things from US history they had never considered. Much like learning about history in the Capitol building, White House and all over DC, here they were learning too. It just looked and felt different than a few days ago.

Susan Stamberg, (special correspondent for NPR) wrote in a June interview this year, “Race, fairness, ideals, death and fears – all touched on by things we bought, heard, saw, laughed at, loved over the decades – “Entertainment Nation” in regards to the nearly 1 year old reimagined permanent exhibit.” It was incredible how the exhibit showcased US history, political and entertainment connections; history and the life-changing impacts on the world.

As we pried ourselves from one exhibit to the next (simply called, The First Ladies) we walked into an exhibit bright with color, history, change and challenge. Taken from the Smithsonian website, “The First Ladies explores the unofficial but important position of first lady and the ways that different women have shaped the role to make their own contributions to the presidential administrations and the nation. The exhibition features more than two dozen gowns from the Smithsonian’s almost 100-year old First Ladies Collection, including those worn by Frances Cleveland, Lou Hoover, Jacqueline Kennedy, Laura Bush, and Michelle Obama. A section titled “Changing Times, Changing First Ladies” highlights the roles played by Dolley Madison, Mary Lincoln, Edith Roosevelt, and Lady Bird Johnson and their contributions to their husband’s administrations. The First Ladies encourages visitors to consider the changing role played by the first lady and American women over the past 200 years.”

Dishes, dresses, perspectives and causes that have changed the lives of so many Americans. My favorite part? A never-before seen Mr. Rogers dress worn by—- JUST KIDDING!

My genuine favorite part of this, our last day, was how are kids were making connections to many parts of history, choices, personal needs and choices. Our daughters gaped at the stunning gowns that again, we’d only seen on TV. They both recognized Dr. Jill Biden’s gown and coat, which impressed hubby and I both. It is thrilling to witness the connections they make as they grow to the world they will inherit. I pray we can continue to teach them to love, cultivate and care well.

There were discussions about costs, resources and choices (“Why did they spend the money to replace dishes EVERY time someone new came to office? That feels wasteful,” “Wow, it all changed between ____ and ______! Why?” and the comments continued….

When we were finally ready to visit another exhibit, we found ourselves wandering across the hallway and I knew the minute we entered that my heart was about to break.

“The Price of Freedom: Americans at War surveys the history of America’s military from the French and Indian Wars to the present day, exploring ways in which wars have been defining episodes in American history. The exhibition extends far beyond a survey of battles to present the link between military conflict and American political leadership, social values, technological innovation, and personal sacrifice. The heart of the story is the impact of war on citizen soldiers, their families, and communities.” Smithsonian Museum of American History website.

As my daughter pushed my wheelchair through this particular exhibit, we quietly whispered to one another…so difficult to see in so many ways the massive costs so many wars and conflicts have had on Americans and other soldiers, their families and the Earth itself. I am sure it is no surprise, if you’ve been reading along, that I am a lover of peace, justice and mercy. It was much like the Holocaust Museum in my mind, not wanting to avoid and acutely aware of the pain and loss on realistic display. By the time we finished going through the exhibit, my heart was heavy and my brain full – there was so much to take in.

We decided together that we were “museumed out” for the day and though we had just been through a really tough exhibit, we all wanted to visit Arlington National Cemetery before we began the trip home the next morning.

My dad is a veteran and has long discussed the discipline, sacrifice and selflessness of those who serve in the many branches of military of the United States of America. He and my mom both have a beautiful, timeless respect for those who have served and the families who wait for them at home. They are both role models in so many ways.

Another Metro trip and a whole other experience of awe-inspiring. We made our way to the trams and began our trip through the the perfectly cared for grounds, paths and more than 400,000 gravestones. Made of either Georgia or Vermont marble, the headstones weigh 250 lbs., are 4 inches deep, 13 inches wide and 42 inches tall. The precision placement of so many headstones, the honor and respect in this as well as the pride and respect of the those who work here was not lost on me in my work involving bereavement and loss.

We were able to visit the final resting place of President Kennedy and his family members, see the headstone of Ruth Bader Ginsberg and then made our way to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

I cannot imagine the commitment this requires, but seeing the precision and dedication of these selfless sentinels was both breathtaking and sobering: knowing that 365 days/year, whatever circumstances come, they are volunteering here, honoring the fallen. This made my complaints or struggles disappear.

From Arlington National Cemetery Literature: “Soldiers who volunteer to become Tomb Guards must undergo a strict selection process and intensive training. Each element of the Tomb Guard’s routine has meaning. The Guard marches 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb, turns and faces east for 21 seconds, turns and faces north for 21 seconds, and then takes 21 steps down the mat. Next, the Guard executes a sharp “shoulder-arms” movement to place his/her weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors, signifying that he or she stands between the Tomb and any possible threat. The number 21 symbolizes the highest symbolic military honor that can be bestowed: the 21-gun salute.”

I sat mesmerized by the absolute dedication in every way. Though we stood outside, the space around us was so silent during The Changing of the Guard, you could hear a pin drop as we stared across the 639 acres of tribute, honor and solitude for so many who’ve given their lives for our freedoms. These too were moments I will never forget.

We rode the Metro back to the condo together, soaking in time, our own thoughts and hearts full of gratitude for it all. We are still processing so much, asking questions and reliving the moments of complete awe.

E and I shopped for a last time in sweet Old Town, Alexandria – found her one of a kind homecoming dress, eliciting lovely words from women in the store, munched on homemade chocolate chip cookies, visited bookstores, jewelry and a beautiful stationary store. One of the most interesting stores, (the only one of its’ kind in the US – according to its’ owner) was Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop, a period positive store with a mission to inform and facilitate health for girls and women. It was refreshing to hear the knowledgeable owner and her colleague genuinely believe in removing shame and frustration around the subjects of woman and reproductive health.

All across our travels were these moments of wonder and saturation, from the monumental to the small, yet so significant: friendly, caring people EVERYWHERE, architecture, historical detail, laughter and TIME TOGETHER, honor, color, remembrance, joy, commitment and perseverance. From sparkling jewelry at Tiffany, the Rotunda at the Capitol, Cascading light in all directions in the National Cathedral and magnificent memories on the National Mall, it was an plethora of riches. The best, best blessing to our family was the GIFT of time with my parents and each other. I can’t say it enough….

I hope to appreciate the people who bless our lives ALWAYS, before I long for things. I pray to ALWAYS find Jesus in EVERYTHING, ALWAYS. I long to live in GRATITUDE, ALL OF MY DAYS, especially the hard ones. AND, I STRIVE to be overcome with AWE, for all that God has extravagantly given. Saturated, INDEED….

One last installment to go…it is a pretty special one. Thank you for reading, hearing and sharing in our stories. It means so much…

Both/And

xoxo