We have spent the weekend in DC visiting with Cory, Kim, Ralph, Brendan, Katie and Katie’s mom, Barb. When we arrived Friday it was 66 degrees and we gathered outdoors. Saturday was snow and cold weather. It warmed up a little on Sunday, and we went to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park to see panda bears, elephants and bison.

Saturday night we celebrated Greg (2/19), Cory (2/22) and Katie’s (3/15) birthdays. We started with a grazing board, followed by mussels and homemade French fries. Ralph sat with us at the table enjoying his dinner and some fries.

But then Ralph got a true treat. Melinda had prepared her world renowned carrot cake. Greg, Cory and Katie blew out the candles and then everyone got a slice of cake. Ralph was not exactly sure what was in front of him, but after one mouthful he was hooked. Every time he took a bite (or should I say a handful), he broke out clapping!

We are so lucky that the gang is in DC and we can visit everyone at one time. What a way to kick off our trip. Monday morning we head south the South Carolina and warmer weather.