D. C. Highlights: Part 1 of 2

Last week, my sisters K & T, our friends L & A, and I all had the amazing opportunity of spending a week in our nation's capitol. We had an absolutely wonderful time. The weather was gorgeous, the crowds were thin, and the place just oozed history. Here are some of the highlights of our trip.

Petersburg National Battlefield

Our first stop was at the Petersburg National Battlefield, home of the final battle before the fall of Richmond during the Civil War. It was very interesting, especially the tunnel dug by the Union in order to blow up a Confederate stronghold. This battlefield is also important to my sisters and I personally because one of our Confederate ancestors was killed here.

Do Hard Things 2009 Conference

We were so blessed to able to attend the final "Do Hard Things" conference of the year. Over 3,000 people came from literally around the world to hear Alex and Brett Harris of The Rebelution speak about using your young years to glorify God and as a launchpad for a productive adulthood. If you were unable to attend one of their conferences, I strongly recommend that you either attend one next year, or that you order the DVD. I promise that you will be challenged and edified by the message that these young men bring.

Mount Vernon

It was absolutely beautiful the day of our visit to George Washington's home. Though there was no way for us to really see everything the place has to offer, we still got a taste of what life was like during the 18th century. We toured the mansion, saw the brand new museum, shopped at the annual craft fair, and enjoyed lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn. This is one place that I hope I will get to go back to and explore even further. The views of the Potomac alone are worth the trip.

The Mall

Our trip to the National Mall included just about every monument and memorial there is. We had wonderful views from the top of the Washington Monument as well as from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. My personal favorite was the WWII memorial. It is huge and magnificent and a wonderful place to sit and reflect on our nation's past, present, and future.

The US Capitol

The Capitol is a must visit on any trip to D. C. It is truly amazing how much history haunts those halls, how many laws (good and bad) first came to be in those rooms, how many men have taken on the mantle of President on those steps. Though it doesn't often seem that way, this place really is the sounding board of the people.

The Library of Congress

Being the bookworm that I am, this was a HUGE highlight of my trip. It is the largest library in the world and the building itself is absolutely stunning. From the paintings on the ceiling to the marble steps worn by time, this place simply breathes learning and history. There are some really cool things on display right now as well, like the Gutenberg Bible and Thomas Jefferson's personal library.

The Supreme Court

This building was the least crowded but also one of the most interesting in D. C. As you roam the marble halls, you really begin to understand just how important the judicial branch is to our way of life here in America. Since the court was not in session, we were able to sit in the courtroom and hear a lecture given on the history of the court. It is very fascinating, so be sure to stop by if you get the chance.

The National Air and Space Museum

If anyone ever tells you that it will take you years to see everything in the Smithsonian, they are 100% correct. There are so many national treasures on display throughout the many buildings that it can get overwhelming. The highlights of this museum are the "Spirit of St. Louis", Amelia Earhart's airplane, the Wright Brothers' flyer, and a piece of the moon. There is a lot to entertain both young and old.

Part 2 continues with the National Archives, the National Cathedral, the White House and more!