This is one of the days I warned my family about. It was a long, long day and both tough and rewarding.

We started out early. We had to be to the White House by 8:15am.

After getting through security, we walked around the East Wing and the lower level of the Mansion. No pictures allowed. We could take them outside, though.

It was quite an experience being where so many Presidents have been.

After that, we were off to the Zoo.

Another Stephen picture with Flamingos…

 

Here is a very short review of the National Zoo, it is very big and requires a TON of walking both uphill and down. While it is a cool place, you might want to skip it if you ever come in the summer. Just too hot and too much walking. Especially if you are going to it using public transportation.

Anyway, after a quick stop off at the hotel, we were off to Arlington Cemetery.

 

Changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns…

 

Here is another retake from 2006 at JFK’s eternal flame…

 

FYI, I am not shorter (at least not significantly).

And another from the grounds… 

 

We then went to a mall near the Pentagon to grab some dinner and then we went to the Marine Corps Memorial for a Sunset Parade. "The Commandant’s Own," The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps marched an played.

To my surprise, the Marine Silent Drill Platoon performed. It was incredible.

That ended at 8:00pm and we headed back to the hotel on the Metro.

It is now 10:00 and we have another early start tomorrow so off to bed.