A Quieter Place

Most of my Family Friday posts feature just the kids and I, so in honor of hubby joining us yesterday for our discovery here’s how we spent a portion of our afternoon.

We didn’t get out of the house as early as planned. That seems to be the norm around here regardless how early I wake up. It was now 12:30 pm; not a good idea for a trip to the city, but like I said, the hubby was off so I was taking full advantage.

We settled on President Lincoln’s Cottage during our drive in. We walked some of the grounds before sneaking in on a senior group tour. Okay, we didn’t exactly sneak in; the tour guide didn’t say anything though I was wondering why everyone favored a librarian or a historian but we kept going. We were kicked out a few minutes later but in a very nice manner. Lol

The Soldiers’ Home where the cottage is located is in fact a very quiet retreat nestled on a hill overlooking Washington, just three miles north of the White House away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The President and his family found solitude here during the summers of 1862, 1863 and 1864. Can you imagine a president riding his horse or on a carriage through the city? President Lincoln completed this commute daily much to the worry of his wife, Mary. A far cry from today’s society. During his stay here, the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation was drafted as well as several key war-time decisions made during the Civil War.

Walking the grounds of such historical importance was very refreshing. I look forward to our return in September during the state fair. The thought of my twins and their big sister running around the grounds here makes me smile.