June 6, 2012
Franklin Middle School Middle School Washington D.C.

Our first adventure today started with the Newseum. We sat through a 4-D movie about the relevance of our world media and its impact. This was my first 4-D movie and at one point, I believed a musket ball was headed straight toward me. With the seats moving forward and backward, wind blowing, and the objects flying toward me, I felt as though I was on a roller coaster ride. It was great and the kids really enjoyed themselves.

Lunch at the Old Post Office Pavilion and a bit of shopping, and we were off again to the Washington Cathedral. We were fortunate enough to hear the Cathedral's organist playing for several minutes. Many of us found the music soothing, while others found it it to be calming- almost too calming, if you know what I mean?

The group then visited the Smithsonian National Zoo. Everyone wanted to see the panda bears, reptiles, gazelles, alligators, and cheetahs. Many of us noticed an elephant that became either very happy or extremely angry because it started to barrel into a massive tractor tire dangling from a tree that had to have taken a ton of strength and power. The Packers could use him on their front line, that's for sure!

Ford's Theater next with a park ranger explaining the actual events of the night our President Lincoln was assassinated. Our group was literally 2 feet from the Presidential Box and we took some great photos. I remember two years ago, the group was so tired, we could barely keep our eyes open, but not this year. Everyone liked the theater and also going to the Petersen House. It definitely helps the students understand our history actually being at the site and walking the same ground as our forefathers.

With storm clouds looming overhead, we were able to travel through Embassy Row and identify all the flags in front. The students really amazed Diane with their knowledge of identifying the flags.
As we departed the bus on Pennsylvania Avenue, the walk up to the White House was mesmerizing for some kids. This was the first viewing for some and they were so excited to say that they were standing in front of Our White House. We were able to get a group photo too. Diane, our guide praised the kids for their intelligence and for the kind behavior as she said farewell to the kids.

I have to admit, by this time, we are a bit tired and ready for a break. Well, for Mr. Zinnen and Mr. Knoepfle, nothing could be more relaxing than going to a ball park and watching a game. The Nationals were playing the New York Mets and this gave the group a chance to watch a good game, get some really 'unhealthy' food - (sorry Ms. Gifford) stand up and dance and also to do the "wave". Mr. Knoepfle was dancing so much even the guys behind our row were laughing and high fivin' him. Can you say attention seeking disorder:)!!? Thank goodness he didn't have a microphone!

We made it back to the hotel early enough to get a few more minutes of sleep and we were ready for our last day of our adventure. We look forward to another day of seeing all of these wonderful sites.

I hope you enjoyed this blog! Go Falcons!