Easter week has been lovely in our nation’s capital city. On Palm Sunday it was special to have Cousin Jane join us at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception with Archbishop Pietro Sambi from Rome presiding at High Mass. The Basilica’s beautiful gothic architecture, colorful mosaic ceilings, and sixty-three small side prayer chapels adorned with altars each reflecting various world cultures were indeed breathtaking. What a surprise we had bumping into former House Speaker Newt Gingrich in church.
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| Basilica of the National Shrine ... One of many ceilings |
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| A Hello with Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich after mass |
The Smithsonian Natural History Museum is a happening place full of National Treasures and Ancient Civilization artifacts. Exhibits of rare orchids, minerals and gemstones, insects, butterflies, mammals, and skeletons of extinct organisms are fascinating.
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| Rotunda at the Smithsonian Natural History museum |
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| Giraffe tongue in action |
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| Orchids Galore |
A visit to President Lincoln’s Cottage known as the Soldier’s Home gave us a glimpse into his family’s private summer retreat during the Civil War located three miles northwest from the White House. We learn Lincoln commuted by horseback from the Cottage to the White House and back daily without guards, mingled with Union soldiers and the wounded, and drafted the Emancipation Proclamation at this refuge. We enjoyed Cousin Mary visiting us at the motor home for lunch one afternoon as well.
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| The Soldier's Home (alias Lincoln Cottage) in D.C. |
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| The flag placed under President Lincoln's head the night he was assasinated |
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Easter week has been lovely in our nation’s capital city. On Palm Sunday it was special to have Cousin Jane join us at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception with Archbishop Pietro Sambi from Rome presiding at High Mass. The Basilica’s beautiful gothic architecture, colorful mosaic ceilings, and sixty-three small side prayer chapels adorned with altars each reflecting various world cultures were indeed breathtaking. What a surprise we had bumping into former House Speaker Newt Gingrich in church. 
