We’re having a great time in Washington, D.C. The city still enthralls me with its beautiful buildings, flowers and trees (azaleas and dogwoods are blooming!), and history. We enjoyed delicious seafood last night in Annapolis with friends from my Special Olympics Intl. days. Today we had a truly wonderful private “tour” of the Pentagon with Papaw (Tim’s dad). My favorite moment was walking with our best manners down the corridor that houses the office of the Secretary of Defense. We glanced in as we walked by, but there was no sign of him. A friendly assistant did wink at us, though.

We also enjoyed a tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. I’ve never been there even though one of our dearest friends works there. It was wonderful to see Julie, who managed to look beautiful as always despite hosting a four a.m. tea party in honor of the Royal Wedding. I was tempted to go, but couldn’t imagine trekking around the District on so little sleep. But I’m sure there’ll be lots of coverage to watch online.

Tomorrow we’re off to the National Zoo with Amy to see the pandas. A kind reader (who’s a D.C. native) let us know that there are baby lions there, too. And we’d also like to get a closer look at the memorials. We’ve driven past them a few times (including once at night, which is so dramatic), but now we need to walk around and really see them.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. We’re hoping that spring will finally have arrived for good by the time we get home.