Happy Birthday to Me

Yesterday's post was a delightful surprise to me. Thank you all for the kind words and notes, in email, on Facebook and here.  My readers rock!

Since we decided to spend my birthday here at home this year, instead of our normal trek to the lake with my folks, I asked The Boss if we could do something special with The Gang and the in-laws.  When the kids heard me ask that, they groaned. They know well enough by now that "something special" and my birthday almost always equates to soaking in the local history.  And let's face it, The Gang lives in a region RICH WITH HISTORY!  Here's a couple pics of how we spent the first day of my weekend-long birthday holiday.  (Declared officially by me.)

These "huts" have totally captivated me.

I think I might frame a couple of the clearest shots.

I couldn't get over the serenity juxtaposed with

the utter crudity of these little cabins.

This Continental Soldier let Baby BlueEyes

hold a musket and took a great deal of time

with him to explain the different uniforms and

accessories. Great memories!

The Memorial Arch was beautiful.

And sobering.

 This was the highlight of my whole day.

Walking where George Washington walked,

I had goosebumps through the whole house.

Look at that! President Washington and I have

the same taste in paint colors!

Can you imagine the conversations and strategies

conceived in this room? 

I actually got a little teary-eyed thinking of the hours

of thought and prayer that I imagine were lifted from

this room to Our Father.

I came away with a renewed feeling of gratitude

for the godly influences and foundations

laid by our forefathers.

The Gang in the shadows of greatness.

And a wonderful birthday celebration. So far!