How We Rang in the New Year...

When Daddy had to go back to work in Washington, the thought of not spending New Year's together really didn't settle well. So, we decided to fly out to D.C. too. The girls and I had a super-early flight Wednesday morning. However, due to a non-functioning navigational system, our flight was delayed for four hours. Let's just say that keeping three little girls entertained and fed--not to mention taking them to the bathroom--for four hours in an airport, by yourself, is not the easiest task. But, somehow we made it.

The girls were real troopers...

We finally arrived at BWI at noon (we were originally supposed to be in at 7:50.) Daddy drove us to our hotel. The girls were very hungry by that time. Luckily there's a deli right across the street. After lunch we were ready to go see the sights (well, of course we've already seen them, but it's still so amazing.) We walked up the Mall to the Capitol. It wasn't nearly as cold as it was last year when we went to see the Capitol Christmas tree. Afterward we went to the U.S. Botanic Garden to see the Holiday train and decorations. The girls loved it. It was like a miniature fairyland, all made of plants and natural materials. Then we went back to the hotel for dinner, and put the girls to bed early--it had been a very long day.

The girls on the National Mall...

The United States Capitol...

Logan...

Carsyn...

Maren...

The Capitol Christmas tree...

On the hill...

Political talks?

At the USBG...

Check out the sun shining on the Capitol...

Thursday morning after breakfast at the hotel, we headed out for a day at the museums. The girls loved both the Natural History and the American History museums, so that where we went. Nothing really new to report on, however the girls were very disappointed that they have not added a dress belonging to Mrs. Obama (preferably her inaugural gown.) After getting their fill of the museums--and lunch--we walked over to the White House to see the Christmas tree on the Ellipse. Then we returned to the hotel and ordered pizza. After dinner the girls enjoyed swimming and splashing around the pool with Daddy. We had no real plans for the evening, just waiting for midnight. But, the girls (predictably) dropped before the ball. Actually, they almost made it...Maren fell asleep at about 10:20, Logan at 10:45, and Carsyn at 11:25. But, at least we were all together! We had a great 2009, and hopefully 2010 will be even better!

The girls in front of the Washington Monument...

Carsyn ready to check out her favorite Smithsonian museum...

The girls at the White House Christmas tree...

Maren loved looking at the trains...

Logan with the Ohio tree...

Maren and Daddy in front of the White House...

Carsyn and Logan...

Splashing, good time...

Dressed up for New Year's Eve...

Little Carsyn...

Logan getting tired already...

The girls and I slept in Friday morning. Poor Daddy was working nights all week. So, even though we were glad to get to spend our days with him--he didn't get much sleep. We ate breakfast at the hotel, and enjoyed a late check out before driving back up to Baltimore to fly home. We had such a fun time in Washington...love you, Daddy!

The girls (not quite) ready to go home...