Homeschooling at its finest

Today was the first day back to school after Christmas break for most school kids in America. To celebrate we went on a field trip! I say "we," but unfortunately Dave and Alyson had work and school and couldn't go. We had a great day, but definitely missed them!

Our plan was to take the Metro into the city to go to the recently renovated and reopened (I love alliteration...) Smithsonian Museum of American History. We haven't been there since we've lived here because it's been closed for a gazillion-dollar makeover, to include a state-of-the-art room for the Star Spangled Banner. It was definitely worth the wait--the Banner's exhibit was beautiful and very high tech. The flag itself was in a darkened hallway-type area, enclosed in a climate-controlled glass chamber to prevent any more deterioration. The words to the song were hanging on the wall behind the flag, and the song itself was playing in the background. There were little lights on the floor to guide us as we walked, and benches to sit on as well. In the immediate area outside the "flag room" was a series of pictures, documents, and memorabilia, describing the flag's beginnings, the story behind the national anthem, the seamstress, etc. Just beautiful. I don't have any pictures of it because, of course, no photography is allowed in that area but trust me-it's definitely worth seeing.

I have to backtrack a bit and remark about how perfectly empty DC was today! I had hoped going today would pay off in smaller crowds due to the holidays being over, and, boy, did it ever! The place was nearly ghostly! No lines anywhere---and it wasn't too cold or windy, either, as it has a tendency to be (remember, Danna?) which was great!

Here are the boys, getting ready to head inside:

What's a trip to a museum without a little Star Wars memorabilia? This costume was from Return of the Jedi. Some of those "wires" on the stomach are actually just little elastic cords...

The museum has two fun rooms for kids--this one concentrated on inventions and kids were free to explore and "invent" all kinds of things. Both Joshua and Jarrett had fun. :)

My favorite exhibit showcased the inaugural gowns and other personal items belonging to the First Ladies over the years...

We could have stayed all day in the exhibit devoted to military history. Even though we've been there before, there were so many new things to see and the familiar things were just as moving as before.

Service Stars exhibit

The entrance to the Vietnam War part of the exhibit was entitled "Television War." It was marvelously done with plastic-covered green sofas, velveety wallpaper, and a bunch of old, analog TV's. I am sure most of you can remember that same set up in your own homes or the homes of your friends! I know I did! :)

After we had finished looking at everything inside the American History museum, Joshua delightedly asked, begged, cajoled us to run over to the Natural History museum, "just for a minute!!!" We expected it, because Joshua would go to that museum every single day if we let him. Anyone who comes to visit us is "treated" to a visit there, whether or not they want it! :)

In an unexpected turn of events, the long-planned Oceans exhibit was finally opened!!! Our plans of just visiting the dinosaurs and insect exhibit were scrapped as we had to spend most of our allotted hour exploring the new hall. It is REALLY COOL. There is a huge whale hanging from the ceiling and video screens of schools of fish wrapped around the upper half of the walls. They have actual angler-fish preserved in little jars, several aquariums with live fish, and there is a neat film on the floor of the ocean. Oh, and a 36-foot long giant squid in a huge case. For those of you who have known Joshua for some time, you understand just how monumental this opening was to him. And if you plan to visit us any time soon (which we hope you do!) just know you will get to see this exhibit in person.

And that was our day. Yes, biology will come tomorrow. Geometry proofs will need to be written. Phonics books are waiting by the loveseat. But precious time with family can't wait.