Four Score and Seven years ago

Shift of focus for a post- but if you know me, I can, and I will, tie it back to Autism.  Look for the Autism link when we see honest ol' Abe a few scrolls down the page.  But for now, here's Paige's birthday memory trip!

We were greeted by smiles and hugs, and matching jammies and a homemade "Paige" pillowcase- such a treat!

twins in their matching jammies

 Friday, we hit the Metro and headed downtown!

 Fun times at the Postal Museum- couldn't believe how many of these magnificent museums were free of charge!

 The Capital Building!

 We took a guided tour of the inside- had to wear our headphones to hear our tour guide.

the "donut" on the top as the two-year restoration project was underway

 And what is that tiny Monument in Paige's hands??

 The next day, we spent the morning at a little festival in their town.  Fall fun for all!

grinding the corn

Making homemade apple cider- yum!

 Then it was time to make some pretty handsome scarecrows for their porch...wonder if they are still sitting in the heap we left them in when we got home?;)

 Petting zoo fun

 On Sunday, we took a bike tour of the city.  Honestly, couldn't think of a better way to tour all of the sights and enjoy the beautiful weather.

Paige was wondering who the guy was on the roof- oh, just a sniper, honey

 The Washington Monument!!

 Lincoln Memorial across  the bay

 Thomas Jefferson Memorial

 A solid statement of equality- and the pursuit of happiness.  Thomas J- you nailed it with this one.

check out these goofs

 And then we made it to the Lincoln Memorial!

and there he is...honest ol' Abe

Four Score and Seven years ago- what does that Gettysburg Address mean to us?  Sure, we memorized the lines in high school.  But what does it mean? Basically, our founding fathers made a new country where they envisioned all people free and equal.  In honoring the soldiers who fought for our country, it is our job, as those still living, to work to finish what those soldiers fought and died for.

I couldn't help tear up a minute reading these words engraved on the wall- and thinking about how far our country has come, but how far we have yet to go.  As I mentioned in my previous post, I have been trying to figure out my direction in our journey.  As I read those words, I knew that our fight to solidify the statement "all men are created equal" was not over yet.  Not just special needs children, but all who might have slight differences, varying religious beliefs...instead of dividing our differences, we need to come together to fight as a team.  We wouldn't be where we are today with Hunter if we didn't have the village praying, fighting, and encouraging.

Ok, back to the tour. :)

 I noticed that California and Wisconsin were right next to one another- a marriage of states!

 The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was amazing, breathtaking in its simple beauty, and moving..listening to a volunteer tell the story of the design (a mirror to see ourselves in the lives of these soldiers who gave their lives for our freedom) and the first to die meeting the wall of the last to pass- all joined in union for our country.

a volunteer etching the name for a visitor

had to swing back for one picture of the four of us in front of THE man's house

Such an amazing four days with one of the sweetest families ever- we shared so many laughs, experiences, and made amazing memories for these girls (as well as ourselves!).  Throughout our Autism journey, this family has been a constant cheerleader for us.  I only hope someday I can give back as much as they have given us- H family, know that you hold a special place in our hearts! Thank you for sharing your new adventure with us!