Day 7:A day at the Beach

Where we stayed: Sleep Inn, Baltimore's Inner Harbor
Weather: Lots of sun, a little rain and a beautiful evening
Miles Walked: around 5, I forgot to wear my padomiter today, oops.
Where we went: Beach, Baltimore's Inner Harbor, Sea Dog Speedboat, and Little Italy.
Highlights: Today was so much fun relaxing and hanging out on the beach. The Virginia coastline is very pretty and reminded me a lot of the Carolina's beaches. Brad and I took a long walk on the beach enjoyed the waves and beautiful weather. In true beach fashion we collected some cool shells and Brad even found a full conch shell. We then headed to Baltimore for our stay in the Inner Harbor. Baltimore is not the cleanest City but it did have some nice points. The Inner Harbor is very neat with lots of big ships, activities, shopping and good restaurants. We walked around and people watched before going on a speed boat cruise. It was a history/thrill ride that we learned about Baltimore and had a great time. We decided to head to Little Italy for dinner, and went to Amiccies. It was INCREDABLE, the best Italian food ever. We had homemade sangria (only sold by the pitcher :) ), garlic bread, house salad with a spicy homemade vinegarette dressing, lisangia (Brad), and prochuto/pea cheese tortelline (Alisha). The whole meal was awesome and Brad and I practically licked our plates. Afterwards we went to Vellcaro which is famous for homemade Italian desserts. After waiting in the long 40 minute line we enjoyed a variety of delishous cookies. I would say this was a great day for the girl, the beach, harbor and good food with my great husband, Bliss!

Day 4:So much to see so little time

Where we stayed:Last night at the Intown Uptown Inn
Weather: mid 70's, off and on clouds, sun and rain
Miles Walked: 3.704
Places we Visited: National Archives, Newseum day 2, Ford's Theater where President Lincoln was shot, Arlington Cemetery, Pentagon and Georgetown.
Highlights: Today was jammed packed and our last full day in DC. We both thought the tour and the National Archives was amazing. It was awesome seeing the Declaration of Independence, American Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and made it an unforgettable experience. Truly a place to not be missed. Unfortunately we didn't get to see the balcony the Lincoln was shot at Ford's Theater but they did have a great museum where we learned a lot. We then took the trek out to Arlington Cemetery which was well worth it. What an amazing place with gorgeous views, and history that gave you goosebumps. We saw Kennidy's grave and the Tumb of the unknown soilders. We saw the changing of the guard which was very neat, they are so respectful, patriotic and précis in there movements. We then headed over to Georgetown to get some yummy cupcakes(full story to come tomorrow) and grab dinner. We were walking around trying to figure our where to eat and who do we see... Maria Shriver (Aja Arnold's ex) and her daughter. It was funny beacause when she saw I recognized her she put her sunglasses on and it was 8pm. It was funny to actually see a star in real life I got a kick out of it. It was a fun way to end a busy day.
Fact: Most of National Treasure the movie was filmed at the Archives.

Day 5:Bye,Bye Washington DC Hello Virginia Beach

Where we stated: The Channel Bass Inn. Great Bed and Breakfast right on the water. They even had a write up in Southern Living.
Weather: Some sunshine, some rain. Here you never know the weather seems to change hourly.
Miles Walked: 2.119 not to many today. Drove about 160 miles.
Places we Visited: We spent the whole morning in Georgetown shopping around and Eating cupcakes. We drove from there to Chincoteague Island. Upon arriving we enjoyed a sunset cruise.
Highlights: It was nice to rake the morning and relax and shop. We got to head back to Georgetown Cupcakes. OMG they are amazing and the shop us so cute. For those of you that don't know they owners have a show in TLC. I watched them make the decorations for 30 minutes, it looked like so much fun. We then went to Dean and Diluca for some yummy take out lunch. Georgetown has cute cobblestone walkways and great shopping. We then started the drive to the beach. We went over many bridges and enjoyed the scenery as we drove. After arriving we quickly dropped our luggage off and hurried to catch our sunset exploration of the Island tour. We were lucky enough to see a large pod of dolphins, a large bald head eagle and wild ponies. The ponies are the main feature of the island as the are wild living on the beach and Island. The weather got a little cold and rainy but overall the cruise was great. We finished off the night enjoying a great sea food dinner.

Day 6:A day on the Island

Today was our first full day on Chincoteague Island.
Where we Stayed: The Channel Bass Inn
Weather: Sunny today and hot. Lots of humidity in the air. Late afternoon rain and breeze which felt great blowing from the water.
Miles walked: Today we only walked about 1 mile. Don't let that four you into thinking we relaxed, quit the contrair friends. We biked about 15 miles and took 175 steps to the top of a light house in Assateague Island.
Places Visited: We saw what we came to see and honestly the only thing here, Assateague Island.
Highlights: First off let me start by saying the breakfast at our Bed and Breakfast was AMAZING. We took advantage of the free bikes and took a ride out to the island. The bike ride was quit long but very flat and lots of great scenery along the way. We parked the bikes to take the hike up the lighthouse and see the great, beautiful views from the top. We can back to the BandB and enjoyed a great afternoon tea. Barbara the owner is from England and sure knows how to cook. Our favorite was the tea sandwiches and ginger scones. We ended the day strolling the small town and relaxing.
Side Note: Do any of you have the National Parks Passport book? It is so much fun, especially if you travel a lot. Basically it is like a normal passport where you get special stamps for each location. I have had mine for about 3 years and live the hunt for the stamp. Some locations have special stamps and stickers. It is an awesome way to chronicle your adventures. I highly recommend getting one.

Day 3: Court is Now In Session

Where we stayed: The Inntown at Uptown Inn
Whether: Rain,rain, humid afternoon and a great evening.
Miles Walked: 5.348, didn't seem like we did this much walking, moat was Museum walking.
Places Visited: US Capitol tour, Library of Congress, Newseum, and Crime and Punishment Museum.

Side Note: Public transportation here is a trip. There are some REAL characters. Minus the crazies it is fun to see and hear the conversations from all the professionals. Also I have seen so many cute business outfits that I love. People are very into fashion, I think some of them may have even walked out of an Ann Taylor magazine. Also I feel smarter just listening to all the lobbyist and business people.

Highlights: The capital was very interesting to see. The building it's self is very interesting and the architecture is amazing. Wish we could have seen more of the capitol as the tour was very short.
Newseum is AMAZING, one of my favorite places so far. It is a Museum that focuses on current and past News and news media. FACT: News stands for North, East, West and South. This museum is interesting from the second you walk in with great exhibits like pieces of the Berlin wall, the front page of every news paper for that day, and an amazing tribute to 9/11. The 9/11 area was phenomenal with the center piece being the news antenna that used to be on top of the south tour surrounded by the front page of every news paper in the day after the tragedy. It was excellent and touching, a real wow moment. We finished off the day with the Crime and Punishment Museum. They taped America's Most Wanted here and had some great exhibits. We had a good dinner at a great BBQ joint called "The Line".

These are random but I wanted to document. Thought 1-The people here are pissy and rude at all times. It is rare to have some one be nice and happy. They like to roll their eyes a lot.
Thought 2-You have to be very selective in who you ask to take your picture. Some people are so digitally challenged when it comes to them getting a good picture. Brad and I just have to laugh at some of the pictures that we have, super close up with our faces or so far away it looks like we are ants. Hopefully we have some "keepers" I can get in a frame!

It was pooring but the capitol looked so crisp, if you look closely you can see the Secret Service

Brad trying to capture the shot on the back of a $50

Piece of the Berlin Wall

Looking out from the Captiol at the Washington Monument

Radio tour at that was on top of the South Tour, behind are the front pages of the news on September 12, 2001

Top Part of the Capitol Dome



Beautiful afternoon at the Capitol



Day 2: A time to Reflect

Where we Stayed: The Inntown at Uptown Inn.
Weather: A little chilly today, nice temperature for walking around.
Miles Walked: 3.291, no where near day 1. We were so sore today.
Places we Visited: US Bureau of Printing and Engraving, Holocaust Museum, and Smithsonian Natural Science Museum.
Highlights: We saw millions of dollars literally being made. They were printing $100 bills on the press, 36 per sheet. They were also working on the new design $100 bill which should be released soon. It was amazing to see how the money is made and the whole process. Interesting fact... No bill over $100 has been printed since 1940's. Also if there is a star on your bills after the front number sequence it means he original bill with this number sequence was distroyed due it it not being the right quality. Thus them replacing the bill and indicating the switch with the star.
The Holocaust Museum was very draining but very important to see and remember the almost geniside Hitler created. The exibit was very touching, hearing the stories of the survivors and seeing there diarys and letters from their experiences Brad and I were very humbled by the experience.
We saw the "Hope" diamond, bling! It was very dazzling and put in a great Harry Winston display. We also saw the IMAX movie Tornados which was very intense. We finished the night with great Mexican food in a great, fun part of town. Before heading back we caught the first half of the Monday Night football at a bar that had a Bronco flag flying. A great way to end a great day.

"Hope Diamond" in a Harry Winston Setting

Standing in the entry way of the National Musuem where "Night at the Museum" was filmed

Our Nations Capitol: Washington DC

Brad and I arrived in Washington DC late last night. I will post a diary of our daily events along with LOTS of photos. Enjoy Washington DC, Virgina Beach and Baltiimore through our eyes.

Day 1
Where we stayed: The Inn Town Uptown in in Washington DC. We had a great breakfast and enjoyed the B and B resident pug. Easy bus acess to "the Mall" and the Monuments.
Weather: Amazingly cool in the upper 60's, great walking weather.
Miles Walked: 6.589 (our bodies are dead tonight) 8.0 Segway miles (so much fun)
Places visited/things we did: Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Viatnam Memorial, Koria War Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, The White House, Smithsonian American History Museum, US Capitol and City by night Segway tour. (standing ovation for all we saw)
Highlights Alisha: What a humbling experience to walk through history, I am so proud to be an American. Literally all day I was speechless. The monuments were larger then life, and truly amazing. Nothing beats the views from standing on the stairs of the Lincoln Memorial where MLK gave his "I have a Dream Speach". The Smithsonian History museum was great. My favorites here were the exhibit with all the first ladies Inogral ball gowns and the original flag that inspired the Star Spangled Banner made by Francis Scott Key.
Highlights Brad: Seeing the flag in the Smithsonian and Segway DC by night tour. The tour was such a great way to see everything eliminated at night. Great fun speeding around the town and hearing history.




Lincoln Memorial, Lincoln is facing the Capitol

 

Brad at the Lincoln Memorial, Up the steps is where MLK stood

Segway Tour infront of the US Capitol



Front lawn of the White House with the Rose Garden Behind us



Walking up to the Washington Monument, Tallest Monument in the US



WWII Memorial



Korian War Memorial

Remembering Our Hero's

It is with a heavy heart that I write this post.  Where were you when the world as we knew it in America changed?  I was a freshman in college in Missoula Montana, hundreds of miles from home when I heard the words that the towers had been hit and America was under attack.  It was a day that changed all of our lives.  All of us have memories of where we were when the news hit, but we are here because of the hero's that sacrificed their lives for the greater whole.  With tears in my eyes all I can say is "Thank you" to the heroes that saved my life and my freedom.  I am so thankful to everyone that has died for me, my family and America.  I am so proud to be an American.

I'll Never Forget (9-11 Tribute)

Let the world always remember,
That fateful day in September,
And the ones who answered duties call,
Should be remembered by us all.

Who left the comfort of their home,
To face perils as yet unknown,
An embodiment of goodness on a day,
When men's hearts had gone astray.

Sons and daughters like me and you,
Who never questioned what they had to do,
Who by example, were a source of hope,
And strength to others who could not cope.

Heroes that would not turn their back,
With determination that would not crack,
Who bound together in their ranks,
And asking not a word of thanks.

Men who bravely gave their lives,
Whose orphaned kids and widowed wives,
Can proudly look back on their dad,
Who gave this country all they had.

Actions taken without regret,
Heroisms we shall never forget,
The ones who paid the ultimate price,
Let's never forget their sacrifice.

And never forget the ones no longer here,
Who fought for the freedoms we all hold dear,
And may their memory never wane,
Lest their sacrifices be in vain.

Alan W. Jankowski

"WINNING"

Last weekend was a weekend to remember.  With it being the long holiday weekend we decided to head up to Black Hawk and stay at Ameristar our favorite hotel.  For those of you that haven't been to up to Black Hawk it is only about an hour away and it literally like a mini Vegas.  Brad and I aren't huge into gambling but there is so much to do up there and the hotel is so nice.  The best thing is the hotel rooms which are very inexpensive when you have a players card.  The rooms are VERY nice and all have great views of the town on the mountain.

View from the Room of the Town

We meet John and Maggie up there.  The night started with some lovely wine, all nights that start with wine end well :)  We all had to gamble some to make sure that we got the buffet for free.  That is another great thing about Ameristar is that fact that they have an AMAZING buffet that usually is free.  In order to get the buffet you have to swipe your players card to print out the receipt.  They had a game pop up on the screen just for card holders.  It was called "Gold Rush".  Basically you clicked on gold mine carts and what ever card you clicked on your won the prize.  Brad was happy that he won two free tee shirts.  I got a weird ticket that said gold coin.  I didn't think any thing of it and through the receipt in my purse.  While I was enjoying my fabulous clam chowder John was like, "you should see what that gold coin is, I am curious." So folks that is where the "winning" title comes in.  Mind you at this time I was a slight bit tipsy on the above mentioned glass um bottle of wine.  I walked right up to the friendly lady at the guest services and said I have this gold coin ticket.  Her eyes got big and she said in a high voice... "YOU ARE THE GRAND PRIZE WINNER!!" Brad and I both looked at each other and said "what are you talking about?"  She said you won a REAL gold coin... what get out!!!  So the value is... drum roll... $1890.  I couldn't believe it!!!  After what seemed like 30 minutes the CEO of Ameristar and the Banker delivered it to me in a little ceremony.  Then they proceeded to ask me if I wanted to be escorted back to the room by security.  What, What I could barley control my utter shock.  So ladies and gents what started as being a fun weekend get away turned in to yours truly being a high roller.

Waiting for the coin to be delivered

Gold Bliss

Happy Winner

We finished the night in the hot tub on the 26th floor looking at the beautiful stars.  The pool and hot tub are so relaxing and fun.  The next morning Maggie and I enjoyed the private spa.  It was AMAZING.  They have a large hot tub, steam room, sauna, fire room, snacks, amazing flavored water and much more.  We literally sat and relaxed reading magazines for hours.  The boys gambled and we Spa'd it up!!!

Every  fun/winning weekend must come to an end, boo!!!  What a great trip to Ameristar I am sure we will be back soon. 

The Cabin

Last weekend we set out for the cabin for the weekend. We asked John and Maggie to join us and we're happy they could come with us. In true cabin tradition we stopped on our way up at the Kingsoopers in Conifer. I sware to you I don't know what it is but they have the best food! It is always very fresh and delicious. The rest of the drive was a little nerve racking as it got dark very fast and it was raining. We finally arrived and got the cars unloaded and started dinner right away. Maggie got Omaha steaks (what a treat) and the boys spoiled us with making dinner while Maggie and I decided to relax with some great wine (a whole bottle to be exact ;) Dinner was amazing, I must give props to John that he makes the best steaks.

View from the Patio where we ate lunch

We woke up the next morning to beautiful mountain weather. The cabin is in FairPlay,CO which is a very cute, charming mountain town. We were able to hang out on the deck for breakfast and watch the hummingbirds for a while. We then headed to Breckenridge which is about 25 minutes away. We weren't aware that Colorado was hosting a professional bike race with one of the legs ending in Breckenridge that afternoon. We had made lots of plans of things we would do once we got into town, due to the race our whole day changed! After it taking forever to park and getting shuttled into downtown we were able to walk around town and shop some. We went to our favorite restaurant Kanosha Steakhouse to sit on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the slopes. After lunch the bikers finally made it to town. It was exciting to see the racers. They were riding at about 30 mph which was awesome to watch.

Bikers on the final stretch before crossing the finish line

Maggie and John on the slide

Coincidentally we brought our mountain bikes up to ride the Gondola up to the top of the lifts and then ride back town. Long story short we got to the top after battling some rain/lightening to find out the lift to the top was closing and we couldn't go up. John and Maggie decided to ride the Alpine Slide and Brad and I just enjoyed the mountain views.




Since we had lugged our bikes everywhere we decided to ride our bikes back on the road from the ski base to town. Great idea right.... WRONG... About half way through in started to down poor. Here we are riding as fast as we can soaking wet, it took about 20 minutes from when the rain started to get back to the car. We were all cold and WET and decided to head back to the cabin. That night Maggie and I treated the boys to dinner while we watched the Bronco's game. The sunset that night was beautiful, we all enjoyed the crisp mountain air and sunset.

View from the Deck

Sunday we slept in and decided to go fishing before taking off. We all semi-caught trout at least one trout. Some got off before we got them to shore. Once again it started to rain so we packed up to head back to the cabin. The weather was interested all weekend but what can you do it is the Colorado Rockies! It was sad to leave that afternoon as we had such a great time.

Brad with a Rainbow Trout

Fishing at the lake

Thanks to John and Maggie for coming with us, we had such a great time and can't wait to go back up with you guys again!