Independence Day the DC way

I spent the morning and afternoon at Mt. Vernon. What better place to be on the 4th than the home of the man who made the USA. We spent the 4th there when the family came a couple years ago, and I fell in love with Mt. Vernon. George Washington's relatives sure knew what they were doing when they created a home on that breathtaking spot. I could spend hours sitting on the back porch of the mansion enjoying the view.

I have always had great respect for our first president, which only deepens the more I learn of him. If I could choose to meet and speak with anyone form the past, he would be at the top of the list. One thing I greatly admire him for is the fact he was able to turn away from immense power when it was his for taking, and not only once. There are so few men, past or present, who could or would do what he did if they were in the same place. His standards, morals, and ideals were more important than himself.

After touring the mansion and watching a reenacted review of the troops, followed by the reading of the Declaration of Independence, came the highlight of my day. I followed a procession down to the tomb of the Washingtons, and witnessed a wreath laying ceremony by the Sons of the American Revolution. We were invited to individually lay a carnation at the tomb. It was a very moving experience for me in which I felt I was able to show my deep appreciation, respect, and admiration in a very small and simple way.

The rest of the Mt. Vernon visit consisted of music demonstrations and performances, a daytime colored smoke fireworks show on the back lawn overlooking the Potomac, relaxing and reflecting on the porch, and touring the museum and education center. One interesting and humorous exhibit was George Washington's dentures, which the exhibit displayed a timeline of his teeth. Also fascinating were the manequins of him throughout his life, which they've used very high tech technology to create and are considered to be as close to the real thing as it is possible to get.

After leaving, I headed to the city to meet up with friends at the Capitol 4th concert. I got there first and with the help of some very nice people (one who turned out to be from Austin) managed to get a great spot. We had a view of the stage and of the fireworks without having been there for 5 hours. Best part - Josh Groban performed 3 songs! He was amazing as usual. Also a highlight, though unexpected was Steve Martin (yes, the comedian) playing the banjo with his bluegrass band. The NSO played while the fireworks went off, and it was spectacular!

I had an amazing day celebrating our country of which I am so proud to be a citizen.
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