Washington DC

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to go to Washington DC with a group of nursing students. The purpose of this term at school was to study a different culture and learn how we can be better nurses in taking care of people from another culture. A few classmates went to Ghana, Taiwan, Ecuador, Tonga or stayed here in Utah County. I chose to go to Washington DC for a week to study our veteran population.
I went to DC with 13 other students and two professors. It was a blast! I learned so much about these brave men and women who served our country. Plus we did some touristy things which is always fun! I haven't been to DC since I was 13 so it was nice to go back. I love the humidity! My hair felt so nice, my hands felt so nice! I hardly noticed the heat! Must be a sign Zac should go back east for med school! *hint hint honey! *

This is me with a sailor at the National Navy Memorial


The National Archives. I saw the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. It was really cool...the spirit is strong there....One nation under God. :) OH, and I ran into Ben Gates...he's a pretty cool guy.


Washington Monument. We got to climb up to the top and see the national Mall.


The new World War 2 Memorial


The Freedom Wall at the WW II memorial. It has 4,048 Gold Stars, with each star representing 100 Americans who died during the war. It's a pretty sobering thought..


The Korean War Memorial. I had the opportunity to take care of a Korean War veteran in Panguitch, Ut, during a clinical rotation. I had a greater, deeper respect for all he did while serving in the Air Force. What a guy!


I did my report on the Iwo Jima Marine Corps War Memorial. I read a great book about the memorial and was so excited to share everything I learned with my classmates! And then, we get there and we met Tom, a veteran who was at Iwo Jima during the 4 day battle. I had to give my presentation first...(talk about intimidating) and then we all sat at his feet and listened to his stories. It was a very special experience.


We visited the temple also! While we were there we all got to share the story of a veteran we know. I shared Papa Moe's story. It was very special. I love him so much and am proud of his service! :)


We also got to visit the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. It is a very special, sacred place. The spirit was so strong just walking in those halls. It has housed so many of our wounded warriors. We got to talk to a few veterans from our recent conflict in Iraq. They are incredible people; I admire them.


It was an amazing experience! I'm glad I went! I learned a lot and had a blast! I am glad I'm back home, however, I just missed Zac too much!