upon arrival, it feels good to have a driver waiting.... perks for Ken being the upcoming President of GAMA!
Just off the airplane we ate at this wonderful Mexican resturant in National Harbor! Best Guachamole EVER.
National Harbor
Sightseeing...
We only took one day to see the sights, so this is IT!
Lincoln Memorial
The view from Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument
(reflection pool was empty for some reason? Seasonal re-vamp?)
Korean War Monument
World War II Monument
Click on the photos below for quotes and details of the Monument...
This particular portrayal of WWII {plaque above} really tugged on my heartstrings. I can imagine this is somewhat similar to my grandfathers service in the war. He was a Medic, and I am so proud of his service to our country to my freedom.
There was a strong feeling of gratitude and pride that I felt while walking the monuments, while reading quotes. I am so proud to be American, I'm so proud of my nation. The time spent in the smithsonians and at the monument mall really gives you perspective. You can't help but feel gratitude for the many sacrifices, freely given, that allow us to live in the nation we do today.
Washington Monument...
American History Museum...
WWII
below is Kenny trying his had at what the women did to help out in the war-
rivets on the airplanes, had to get them all under 30 seconds.
Museum of Natural History
Archives Bldg...
waiting to see The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, and The Bill of Rights.
Museum of Air & Space...
Now, to the events of the trip...
American National Agency Dinner (Grace's)...
Excellence Banquet...
Kenny recieved the Brian H. Early Award, and we all were so proud of him. Of his hard work. He knew Brian personally and worked with him on the creation of LOTT (leaders of today and tomorrow), Brian was a mentor of Kenny's. We met his wife & daughter who are absolutely wonderful women, and expressed out love for their husband/father. Brian was a truly wonderful man.
As you can see we are LOW on photos!!! Truth be told, we spent most of our time listening to speakers, and taking many notes. What a powerful session this year's was! The motivational speakers I heard were amazing! The business tips and secrets were wonderful. I really love going to this confrence. I love that it helps me understand how to support my husband and I love to meet those in the industry he looks up to.
In closing I want to share the "ribbons"
When you register you get ribbons for each "thing" you are involved in, or something like "1st timer" or "GAMA member 10+ years" you get a ribbon if you are on a comitee, etc. Kenny's is impressively long. (And he was missing a couple I think!) I did Kenny's this year, and it is a rainbow... love it! HAHA! Then I stopped by the Harry Hoopis booth and he hooked me up with some stellar ribbons of my own... Very fitting for me I think.
