Day One Hundred Two: Arlington

I'm not sure how I've never made it over to Arlington National Cemetery on previous trips to D.C. but today was my first time to experience it. It took my breath away, broke my heart, gave me chills, made me proud, and caused a well of thankfulness to rise up within me for the sacrifices that have been made for my freedom. I'm usually not easily moved to tears, but it was impossible to not be moved in such a way as we walked through the grounds. We also had the privilege to see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which was moving in its own right.

Arlington

The changing of the guard

Day One Hundred: Lincoln's Cottage

It was another day with multiple Firsts, but I'm choosing my favorite thing, which was Lincoln's Cottage. The Cottage sits about three miles outside of D.C. on the beautiful grounds of the Soldier's Home and adjacent to the original National Cemetery. The Cottage was a retreat of sorts for Lincoln during the Civil War, but it is also where he did much of the important work of writing the Emancipation Proclamation. The tour was fascinating and the guide really brought Lincoln to life for us and challenged us to think and act on "brave ideas," just as Lincoln did. I have always admired Lincoln and his presidency, but today he rose in my estimation even more.

Lincoln's Cottage

A life-size statue of a larger-than-life man

The National Cemetery