When Jeff and I visited out in DC a few weeks ago, I insisted that we make a trip out to Fort McHenry.
This was not my first sojourn to the fort. When I was in the eighth grade I petitioned my dad's boss to let me accompany him on a trip back to Washington DC, explaining that I was studying Fort McHenry at school and would greatly benefit from the excursion. I was a clueless 14-year-old and no respecter of persons - I had no comprehension that Mr. Hughes was actually a very important man and that I was being very bold to draft such an email. However, boldness sometimes pays off, and I got to go.
I actually don't remember much from that first trip to Fort McHenry - my dad blames it on my being a teenager, but I like to point out that my luggage was lost and I was in the same clothes all weekend, plus I was exhausted. However, one story from that trip gets told again and again in our family. I was in one of the buildings, looking at the displays, and Yankee Doodle was playing. I began to whistle along - I can whistle quite loud - and danced a little jig. Finishing my dance, I turned to find an elderly couple standing in the doorway, just watching. I may not have been embarrassed about sending bold emails, but I certainly was when caught in my song and dance!
Fort McHenry is such a fascinating place, such beautiful history there.
I danced in the same spot again this trip - although the only person there to watch me this time was Jeff. Yankee Doodle is just such a catchy tune.
