Sister Visit

 Sisters share a part of your life that no other person can understand.  They were your first friends, part of your make believe world, they share your childhood memories and had the wonderful privilege of watching you go through your teenage years and still love you.

Leslie and Kristen are my sisters.  Kristen, better known as "Shorty" was the better part of all of us.  She was deeply rooted in routines, order and unconditional love.  Her disabilities didn't define her, she defined them.  We were fortunate to have her physically part of our family for 21 years. 

Leslie and I spent much of our childhood as best friends and closest enemies.  More because I was a bratty older sister and wanted total independence.  If I had listened to my parents I would have realized that she was a ton of fun.  She brings the party no matter where you are or the mood.  Her ability to love people where they are, make them laugh and find the fun in any situation is more than an ability its a talent.

About 10 years ago my sister and her family moved to Nashville, a long way from home.  We have seen each other at weddings, missionary farewells, movie premieres and on Facetime, but its not the same as being in person.  When I shared that we were moving to Washington DC my sister immediately checked the drive time from her house 10 1/2 hours. Both of us were excited to be closer together.

Our first visit finally happened at the beginning of June.  I couldn't wait for her to be in our home, to show her and the family around DC, and introduce them to our newest grandson.

Planning day trips, outings or vacations is my thing.  I love it!  It is kind of like writing lesson plans.  My sister is more of a spontaneous type.  We really are opposites. She was a good sport and gave me a few things to plan, but ultimately she wanted to see my favorite places, play games and help me create family memories in our new home.  She is so wise.

This visit included old family favorites and new adventures.  We started with our traditional waffle bar breakfast.  Lots of waffles plus berries, syrup, peanut butter, Nutella, whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.  Once we were fueled we took them to our favorite park.

I must say that my nephew is a teeter-totter beast, he knocked everyone off and not graciously.

Cutie E loved having so many people to play with on the slides, push him in the swings and play chase with.

That evening a few friends were sweet enough to wait on throwing Holly a baby shower till her aunt and cousins could be here.  It is hard when you move to an area and don't know anyone just before having a baby, but I was so impressed by the ladies that came to help Holly celebrate Little Dudes arrival.  Each of them wanted to get to know Holly and made sure to spend individual time with her.  These are amazing women.

Tanner and Renee have not been to Washington DC and wanted to see all the monuments and memorials. So, this auntie/history teacher/DC tour guide planned a jam packed day.  Our city tour began at the White House museum and shop .  This gave them a great overview of the White House before walking down Pennsylvania Avenue.  

Our next stop was the Washington Monument, where I had them do the touristy thing by placing their feet on the monument and take a picture.

At the World War II Memorial they were impressed by the vastness and water features.  It is a beautiful memorial with so much symbolism.

The weather prior to their visit was hot and humid.  Our walking tour was pleasant as the temperatures dropped, the humidity plummeted and we had a breeze.  Walking from WWII to Vietnam was glorious.  

At the Vietnam Memorial we lost Tanner.  He loves history and learning the personal stories, he took his time at each memorial and monument.

There he is, blue t-shirt

The Lincoln Memorial is a bit under refurbishment, but is still spectacular.  The kids couldn't believe how big he is.

We took a rest for some lunch in the shade before visiting my dad's favorite memorial, Korean Memorial.  I love the new addition.

While in DC you have to stop at the Smithsonian Museums.  I quickly took the family into the American History Museum to see the "Star Spangled Banner and then to the Natural History Museum  to see the Hope Diamond and the Mummies.  

By this time is was nearing 4 p.m and Riss was off work.  She met us a few blocks from the Capitol Building.  Once we got to the Capitol Reflecting Pool I felt like we lost Renee.  She was worn out and her feet were screaming at her.  We took pictures and headed straight to the National Archives.

I'm so glad at the last minute I decided to drive to the Jefferson Memorial.  This turned out to be their favorite.  You can beat the setting, views and the five famous quotes of Jefferson.

One of the best parts of this day was spending it with my sister.  She joined me on my very first student led DC trip, that was in 1995.  Twenty-nine years later we were doing it together and having so much fun.

 I successfully wore them out.  Our totals for the day were 19,196 steps, almost 10 miles and 15 stops.

Saturday was much slower.  Sean and I thoroughly enjoy Annapolis.  The shopping, food, and water remind us a little of home.  The historic sites make this town extra special.  We had another beautiful day and were able to take some great pictures.

Their visit ended with a little soccer in the front yard, a few card games and going to church together.

I loved, loved, loved our visit.  It has been so long since we were together, I've missed having my sister and her family just a couple of blocks away.  She feels like home.  That's what sisters can do for you, remind you of home and bring that feeling right back.