In a near-perfect confluence of old friends, new friends, children, adults, historical sights, and perfect weather, four of your humble bloggers gathered for a long weekend at Casa de Lucy. Setting a new standard for hostesses and mothers across the country, Lucy opened her home to us travelers and our cohort of children.
The point of the trip was to show the kids some of the famous sights in the nation's capital. We did about as much as possible with four and six-year-olds. They loved it and were absolute troopers. (Not-so-surprisingly, if you think about it) the highlight for them was not cherry blossoms, the rose garden, Mt. Vernon, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, watching Marine One land, or even the Oval Office--and all these pearls were thrown before these sw...kids. They did enjoy each of these immensely. But the highest highlight was running threw a steam vent together by the Washington Monument ("Mom-ument" for some) and playing in their new friends' sand box at Lucy's home. Sights are nice, but playing with friends...that's divine!
Lucy's Rivendell was a home away from home for our entire band. We had such perfect weather we could come back from a long day of touring, and have a fun meal with the kids and old friends sitting out on the porch, looking at the spring springing all around the yard. We caught up with old friends, talked about life, watched the kids play, and, for some, got to know new friends. It was wonderful.
I got to reflect on the importance of steam vents and sand boxes, even for us adults, when we landed back home last night. I asked a fellow traveler (a bachelor who handled the kids with skill and grace!):
"What was the highlight for you?"
His answer: "The fellowship."
Thomas More
P.S. Thanks Lucy!!!
Next time, can we all come?!
Posted by: Philomena | April 23, 2007 at 10:23 AM
You bet, Philomena! Were your ears burning this weekend? We talked about what a super star you are. You have a standing invitation to stay with us in DC. As long as you're willing to change a diaper or two!
Lucy
Posted by: Lucy | April 23, 2007 at 10:39 AM
I've had lots of diaper-changing practice so I think I'm ready! Let's start planning our bloggers retreat.
Posted by: Philomena | April 23, 2007 at 11:58 AM