Washington, DC - Day 1

One week ago we took off to Maryland for a weeks vacation away from the day to day routine of our life in New Jersey. We were all so excited to get away.

Late Friday afternoon we arrived at the Reise house (Jason's sister, Christy) for an overnight stay before heading to Washington, DC to sightsee for 2 days.

Saturday was a gorgeous day for our visit. We started at the Library of Congress. Brayden and I have a weekly date at our local library, so I thought it would be great to see one of the oldest libraries in our country. Brayden kept asking if we could check out a book, not quite understanding the scope of this library. It was a beautiful building, the architecture and murals on the walls were incredible. I would love to have walked through the aisles, but had to suffice seeing the actual library behind a glass window. 

These paintings with saying under them were all throughout the great hall.

Steps leading up to one of the viewing balconies of the library.

One of the special exhibits we got to see at the library was part of Thomas Jefferson's Library with over 2,000 volumes from his original collection.

Next stop was the United Sates Capitol, where we got to tour the Rotunda, the Old Hall of the House of Representatives and the Crypt.

 

Ready for our tour.

Inside the Rotunda

On the floor of the Old Hall of the House of Prepresentatives

We also went to the National Gallery of Art where we viewed 12 highlights of the gallery. We have never seen a DaVinci or Monet up close and personal, so we thought it be a good idea to take the opportunity.

Monet

Degas

Our own priceless treasures.

Picasso

Sitting for a moment to enjoy the view.

Last was a request per Sarah for the International Spy Museum. They also had a special Bond exhibit of 50 years of Bond Villians.

Last stop after a long day of walking was our hotel, the Grand Hyatt, where Brayden was thrilled to have what he called his own "office".

More vacation highlights to come.