Planes, trains, and Crabcakes!

(Sunday)

There's something to be said for hitting DC before lunch.  We found a hip and lively brunch spot / pub in Georgetown called Clyde's -- exactly along the lines of what we were looking for. There was terrific atmosphere, and seemingly a lot happening, so much so that we were expecting to see some high profile politicos walk-in. Alas, that didn't happen, but lunch was great nonetheless. (by the way, all the girls here wear cute/casual dresses -- didn't see one girl in pants or jeans. Found that interesting and makes me want to wear dresses more].

[EDIT:Mason] Just to clarify...Denie wants to wear more dresses.  Not me.

 

While visiting our nations capital we had to see some sites, the Washington Monument, the White House, the Jefferson Memorial, ... and the METRO.  We did three stops and circled back, just enough to let the girls ride their first train.  For some reason they found that more interesting than a house behind an iron fence.

 

So...what happens if I climb this fence Dad?

After taking in the atomsophere, the kids decided to get serious and do what they came here to do --- PROTEST!!!! (not sure what, but they were not to be stopped!).

 

WE WILL BE HEARD !!!!! 
DOWN WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT !!

After Reese and Penny made their political statement, we made our way to visit our wonderful family members Esther and Jim (and their daughter, Amy).  They invited us to spend the night in their lovely home in McLean, VA. It was awesome to spend time and catch up on the several years that had passed since we last saw them. 

One of the aspects that made the visit unique was the opportunity to see the largest model railroad in DC and the surrounding areas. 

[EDIT: Mason] Today I learned: There are hobbyists...and then there are SERIOUS hobbyists.  Jim is the latter.  A serious model train hobbyist has a 3000 sf basement with an EXACT replica of an existing rail system.  Which also requires 25 people to operate it at full capacity.  I could go on and on but words don't do this masterpiece justice.  A simple internet search for JD Smith's model railroad will fill you in.  I guess this is what war college grads and men that commanded battalions do after they've secured our freedom.  Hats of to you JD!

(Monday)

Our merry little clan, with Bob in tow, then made our way to Annapolis to Mason's mom's beautiful home right next to historic downtown.  For anyone who hasn't been here, come!  It's charming, historic (I said that) and fun with great pubs, the US Naval Academy, adorable shops, and tons of outside dining on the Chesapeake Bay.  It really makes you feel like there really is history in our country.  No matter what some of those Euros like to say!

Made it just in time for lunch and a 40 minute boat tour.  Tomorrow more seafood and and tour of the Naval Academy!

Bob (G-dad) making tracks to the next stop to quench our thirst. 
Beers and lemonade all around!