Monday's Memory--1812 Overture

This Sunday, for Relief Society music time, I decided it was a good time for the sisters to listen to parts of the 1812 Overture.  As I spent time on the computer, trying to find a version with cannons, my memories went back to our trip to DC in 1992.  We were there over the 4th of July and what better way to spend it than at the "Mall".  Mom wanted to stay at the hotel for the day, so the three of us went into town early for the parade.  It wasn't very exciting, and that did it for Todd.  Off he went, back to the hotel swimming pool, leaving Amy and me.  We visited the memorials, listened to a singing group, Up With People, and wandered to the Capitol Building for the concert and fireworks.  Tony Bennett was the special guest, and he was great.  But two things still bring tears to my eyes from that evening...1) there is nothing quite so moving as singing the Star Spangles Banner while looking at the flag flying over the Capitol...and 2) watching fireworks with the Washington Monument as a backdrop, all the while listening to the orchestra play the 1812 Overture with live cannons being shot.  Quite moving.

I don't have any pictures from that evening, but this is Todd and Amy in front of Mt Vernon a few days before.  Amy looks thrilled to be there...usually is was the other way around!