More Washington D.C.!

The older boys started off their day at the US Mint.  The line was terribly long and after a long wait they did not get in.  But a visit to the gift shop made all happy.  The boys got a large penny and half dollar to show off to their friends.  Then they went to the Air and Space which is always a big hit!  Mom and I cought up with them after a failed attempt at an afternoon nap for Owen.  As you can see he is refusing to wear a coat- so a few layers will have to do for now. 

Natural History Museum was next

Shark Jaws

Stegosaurus bones!

Ice cream anytime for these kiddos!  No matter if it is cold it still tastes sooo good.  On the steps of the Natural History Museum.

In the Metro Underground Tunnel.  The boys thought it definitely was just like something from Star Wars.  They were seasoned Metro riders and Will could even navigate the map and stops for us.

Early the next am we set off for the International Spy Museum.  Definitely the most fun and we all could have stayed there much longer reading everything.  It was really interesting!  Then we had a person spy mission through the city of D.C. Using our transponder we would go to certain landmarks and scan fingerprints or wait for incoming messages.  Fun adventure although our transponder died on us after a few spots.  It was a good time for lunch and an even better time to head home for a break!

On our mission!  We are spies- don't tell anyone!

St. Matthew Cathedral- tremendously beautiful!  The boys loved the gargoils and we took the tour around looking for the one that resembled Darth Vader although we couldn't find it.  This church is quite the mixture of church and state with sculptures of Thomas Jefferson and George Washington.  After leaving we read literature that said it was an episcopal cathedral which was something I had never heard of before.  I saw no differences with a catholic altar so it was a great learning experience.  No matter the religion we all lit candles and said prayers for my grandfather and other intentions and hoped that the Hail Mary would still find its way.