Washington DC - Again.

On our last visit to DC, the reflecting pool was empty and fenced off as it was cleaned.  On this visit the Washington Memorial was undergoing some repair.  It was damaged in an earthquake on August 23, 2011. The monument will be closed until 2014. Even with scaffolding, it is pretty cool. 

 This was our first visit to Arlington Cemetery. What an awesome sight. It made me want to celebrate every single day of freedom; it is priceless gift!

The tomb of the unknown soldier offered an opportunity to pause and reflect.  As you can see in the picture there are flowers on the top of the stairs. Placing flowers is a ceremony that brings tears to your eyes.  If you follow the link, Placing flowers you will see the moving the ceremony.  The video shows  Memorial Day, with more pomp and splendor.  The quiet tones of one bugle is every bit as moving as people reverently watch the drama of honoring. I spent much of the day with a tissue in hand and thankful for the freedoms I have because of all the memorials honoring those who fought and argued at great personal expense. Thank you does not seem big enough.