As we come towards the end of our trip, I feel it appropriate to begin with a quote that so eloquently describes our time here in D.C.
“It’s pee-your-pants cool!” –Aly Baldree (a.k.a., our P.A.
My name is Sophia and I’m thrilled to tell you about today’s adventures and excursions as a CWF delegate. We enjoyed the freedom and excitement of Delegation Day today. This particular day is set aside for an (semi) independent exploration of the Mall. The Mall is, in my opinion, the pentacle of our nation’s capital. We had already experienced this general area of the city during Wednesday’s Capital Hill Day. However, our time today differed greatly from the previous trip.
It is difficult to give you a full synopsis of the day because we had so much independence and each chose to visit a variety of different places. Now, I suppose I should explain before this unsettles you to any extent. Your children were not running free, unaccompanied in a metropolitan area. We were in groups =). With the company of a few other delegates, we had the chance to see quite a number of significant places.
The vast majority of the delegation set out to see the National Archives first. FAIL. Not to discourage the importance of the documents on which our great nation stands, but the line to see them was a tad much. When we came across the line that wrapped half way around the block, it was unanimously decided that it simply wasn’t worth the three-hour wait. Following this unfortunate ordeal, each group set out in different directions. My group decided to continue a few blocks off the Mall to see Ford’s Theatre where President Lincoln was assassinated. Others went to the National Museum of American History, some to the National Museum of Natural History, a few to the National Air and Space Museum. I believe there were some delegates who went elsewhere, but these were the most popular.
I don’t know that any groups had a detour like our little side trip. We learned quite a few lessons today. Firstly, Ford’s Theatre is the kind of place that you make plans in advance to go see. Secondly, the International Spy Museum is the type of place that you go to with your parents. “Why?,” you may ask—tickets are ridiculously expensive.
So, back to the main Mall we went, where I believe it’s safe to assume most delegates had returned to after the National Archives fiasco. Way to go to all the wise travelers.
Everyone got lunch on their own. The Smithsonian is currently holding an international festival which I’ve heard was a great place for lunch.
After touring the Mall, we met back up at the American Holocaust Memorial Museum. I thought this was possibly the greatest museum I have ever been through. Unfortunately, I have been informed that this view is not shared by the entire delegation. Whatever the case, this museum was inarguably a valuable reminder of the importance of remembering our history in order to better our future.
Following the Holocaust Museum we embarked on journey of public transportation. First, we navigated the Metro (a frightening experience with such a large group). Next, we caught a bus back to the 4-H Center in Chevy Chase.
We went to dinner, had our last delegation huddle with our awesome P.A. Aly, and are now enjoying the CWF Talent Show. This is the result of the hard work of one of the committees in which Riley County is well represented. Next we’ll have closing ceremonies and finally, a dance.
Today has been a very busy, but exciting day. The entire experience so far has been tremendously impactful for us all and we can’t wait to get home! We’ll see everyone soon!
Sophia Harms
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