Monuments, Memorials and Tweens

For the last three days, I have been traveling with Joan and an 8 year old and a 10 year old -- the first time such a mix has occurred since 1978. In the 31 years since our children were that age, some things have changed and some things have not. Things that have changed include personal electronics such as DS's (Double Screens, for the unititiated), IPODS, Nickelodian and Disney Channel Stars (Sponge Bob included), and the lack of wrist watches.

Things that have not changed -- the Washington Monument, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, Mount Vernon, Monticello and the film at Williamsburg. Oh ... and the magic of enjoying your first Crème Brule (Joan chided me for ordering it 31 years ago for our children, and again tonight, for exposing our Grand Daughters to the crusty pleasure.)

I have also determined that scientists should investigate DNA twists to determine whether jumping on the beds at Hotel rooms can be passed from Mother to Daughter(s) as appears to have happened in our family.

I was pleased to see that despite the sleek, brushed aluminum conveniences of today, that they cannot mask or dull the monuments, memorials and life works of the past heroes and heroines of our culture who continue to live in our hearts -- one generation to the next and the next. May it be ever so.