America's Birthday Party in DC

My God! How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy!

-Thomas Jefferson

I love the Fourth of July to the max!

The entire Evergreen office traveled to Washington DC for our holiday weekend! Our owner's family lives in DC and invited the whole gang to come stay at their house. We had such a wonderful stay there {thank you Allred family}!

Liberty is the breath of life to nations.

-George Bernard Shaw

I am especially grateful that our country created and sustains our Bill of Rights, giving every American rights and freedoms to allow us safety and fulfillment throughout life. Because of our divinely inspired forefathers and founders, we are allowed to exercise religious beliefs freely, which has been the biggest source of happiness and fulfillment {as my religion is intricately woven throughout every action and thought in my life}.

I believe every American MUST celebrate Independence day {at least once} in Washington DC during their lifetime. Not only did we get to do the whole BBQ and park festivities that are traditional 4th activities, but we also saw spectacular fireworks {literally lasted nonstop for 15 mins}. Being able to wander around the Mall and see all the War and Presidential Memorials made the whole experience extra special and memorable. I really felt like I connected in a way I never have before to all those who fought for freedom and to create, preserve, and protect our country.

goofing off at the Washington Monument

I'm related to Abraham Lincoln, pretty cool eh?

This memorial was closed because of fireworks, so we couldn't get very close,
but we still saw it from a distance

Ryan's favorite memorial is the Korean War Memorial. He loves the individual soldiers from each of the countries that participated.

This quote at that memorial hit me hard. Freedom is not free. Millions of men, my ancestors, my father have fought risked and even given their lives so that we can remain free. I am ever so grateful for them.

My favorite memorial is the Vietnam Memorial. I love the simple minimalist style. I love that it is crisp and straight edged, with no 'fluff' distracting the viewer from the emotional mixture of solemn, gratitude, horror, and respect. You are hit dead on with a reflective mirror with all the names of the men who sacrificed their lives for another country's freedom. There is no escaping this wall as you see yourself in it knowing that you have been affect by all those who have and will one day serve. I especially feel connected to my veteran father, who served in helicopters for the Air Force in Vietnam. I love you daddy!

You can see your own reflection in the memorial. We're with Ryan's buddy Hayden

Thank you to all of those brave men and women who are currently serving to protect our country. God Bless You and Your Families!

The day after the 4th, Ryan and I {and the reps} got to go to King's Dominion Amusement Park. I had a BLAST and it was the perfect summer 'life-me'up' the office needed to continue with the grueling work ahead. There were some rides I enjoyed more than others {see my terrified look below} but, overall, it was a success! {I didn't puke at a local Ihop like I did after a long day at Lagoon in SLC a few years ago}

If you look really closely you'll see Ryan, James, and Paul LOVING
the ride while I {2nd person}, on the other hand, fear for my life with horror....