Vacation Time

239 pictures downloaded and now it's time to catch up with my blog. Here goes!

University of Maryland by Amanda's Office

Aero-space museum

Hanadi and Husam

Nevada Babies

Jonathan was born in La Grande, Oregon

beautiful Potomac River behind George Washington"s Home

Kaidence and I were born in Afton, Wyoming

The good ol' state of Illinois

We took a beautiful road trip to our Nation's Capitol the end of April and saw some amazing sights. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery of neighboring states staying in Indianapolis, Indiana over night on our way to D.C. and Columbus, Ohio on the the way back.  Amanda welcomed us in Alexandria, Virginia where we stayed with her and her roommate for the week, camping out in their front room. They were very gracious as we were pretty noisy guests. Amanda showed us around the University of Maryland. It is a gorgeous campus. She spoiled the kids with gifts from the book store and was a wonderful tour guide around D.C.  There was so much to see, and we did our best, but both Jonathan and I agree, going back is a must.

For the kids, the highlights included swimming at the motels, going to the Washington D.C. Zoo, and eating out.  They really did a good job of keeping up with us as we walked their little legs off all week long.
All in all, it was a smooth trip.

My favorite place was Mount Vernon.  I just loved it! I appreciate and admire President George Washington and wish with all my heart that the ideals and patriotism, love of country and God existed in the hearts of our leaders today, like it did with our founding fathers. It was sobering to see the war monuments and the sacrifices made by so many men and women.  Amazing, just doesn't cut it.

It was such a wonderful treat to reconnect with my dear friend Hanadi and her son Husam. It has been over 10 years since we saw each other. We became friends while attending Utah State University.
Hanadi treated us to dinner at a neat Ethiopian restaurant. It was like nothing, I've ever had. Very interesting.

On Sunday we attended a Spanish Ward and that was very enjoyable for us. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I understood and of course, Jonathan was in heaven getting to sing in Spanish and visit with people.
We spent the rest of the afternoon at the beautiful Washington D. C. Visitor's center by the temple.

Thank you so much Amanda for letting us come visit and enjoy your company. You were such a great host and guide.  We love you and are so proud of you and your accomplishments.  Amanda will soon graduate with her PHD from the University of Maryland!  Go Dr. Wilford!!!!