Yay For Family Visits!

Woohoo, the family came to town this weekend! Just the break I think we all needed. Alexis and Viana came into town late Friday afternoon, I skipped out on class (pre-arranged of course), jumped in the 'ole Nissan rental car and sped my way northward to DC to meet them at the airport.

Viana was a bit groggy not having slept on the flight, but I got smiles from her anyway. It is amazing how fast they grow! This was also her 19-month birthday, if you can believe that. She's a walking, running, talking machine with long hair and a pint-sized attitude...and it was great to see. Of course nothing beats a true family hug! (The first photo is mom and Viana heading out for dinner, I think)

We were off to old town Alexandria, VA for our stay at the Lorien Hotel and Spa. Although there wasn't enough time for the spa part, the hotel was nice and perfectly located in historic Alexandria (right on King St. for those who know the area). We spent the first night lazying in the hotel and at the hotel restaurant. Free wine happy hour was a welcome addition.

Saturday we went out and explored the old town. A walk down King St. revealed a ton of shops, restaurants and other sights. There was an Irish faire at a park on the Potomac and we took a stroll through the Torpedo Factory...yes, an actual WWII torpedo factory converted into art studios and display areas. A stroll back the 14 blocks to our hotel and it was nap time for everyone!

Sunday it rained most of the day, and Viana refused to nap, but we set off on a car ride to Mount Vernon and then into DC for a visit to the American History Museum. We saw the history of transportation, the inaugural gowns of the first ladies and the original star spangled banner. The second photo is a photo of me and Viana in front of one of the train exhibits.

The last, but possibly cutest photo, the one of the cute little photog, is Viana after stealing mom's hat, taking pictures in our hotel room. Apparently she has become absolutely fascinated with cameras and managed to take a few pretty good ones (mom will have to upload those since they are on her camera...or should I say Viana's camera?)

Anyway, it was GREAT to see the crew again, and I can't wait for Labor Day when I travel home to see them again. After that, it'll be a short week-and-a-half until graduation and then home!