The White House hosted a party today on the South Lawn for military families. Iain put his name in the hat to go, and he was selected, so we decided to brave it with 3 kids in the crazy heat. Besides an insane walk from the Pentagon parking lot to catch the Metro (but mad props to Audrey who did about zero complaining about how hot and far it was), we had a great time. The girls got balloon "animals" (Audrey got Cinderella and Avery got Ariel ... these were no amateur balloon creators), we had a dinner, heard President Obama speak, saw him pretty closely in a rope line, and ended the day with ice-cream. We left before the fireworks (I think we're the only ones in the greater DC area that didn't stay ... the number of people downtown and parked along the freeways was unbelievable), but got the kids into bed by 9pm, which is better for my day tomorrow. Kai got lots of praise from random passers-by, and the girls had a great time. The two memorable quotes from the evening:
[As we're eating our ice-cream and about to leave]
Avery: Are we going inside now?
Me: Into the White House?
Avery: Yes. Are we going inside for the party now?
Me: No, this is an outside party.
Avery: But where's the cake?
[As we're walking out the gates]
Audrey: Obama sure does have a big backyard.
Me: You're right. He sure does.
Audrey: It's not a NORMAL size backyard for Arlington.
Me: [Silently CRACKING UP] You are right, Audrey. This is definitely not a normal size backyard for ANYwhere.
2 comments:
How fun! In 2002 my husband (then boyfriend) worked for the WH and was invited to the lawn party, but he had watch center duty that day and nobody would switch with him (but nor were they going to the party either). Was hoping to go instead the next year, but by then DHS was created and he no longer worked for the WH, so no invitation :( Great memories for your family!
What a beautiful family photo!
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