Back to the old stomping grounds

(This was written about 3+ weeks ago... but I forgot to post!)
     Here we are, back in Washington DC! We're living in Arlington, VA, lodged with the wonderful Burton family. The Burtons live right by a metro station, so Grant hops on the metro to go to work in DC every day. About a half mile down the road from where we live, there's a store, a library (Jackson loves books!), an ice cream place (Funny how I list this as one of the important things to have very close, because by the time hot July/August rolls around, we'll very likely be going every week...). There are also a few fun restaurants close by.
     We are having so much fun. The church we go to is where both Grant and I served when we were missionaries, so it's been so fun seeing familiar people. We love this area. We are looking forward to completely exploring the city. A couple weeks ago we visited the National Zoo. It's HUGE. We spent all day there, and I believe Jack's favorite animal was the little monkeys. My favorite were the small seals. Grant loved the gorillas. We have felt so blessed to come back to a place we love. Grant has enjoyed his internship thus far, with lots of new experiences and learning about how some things run in DC. We love adventures, and this is a mighty fun one!
      Jackson has become the giggling/laughing king. We love it! He also is learning to use his vocal chords (he is learning how to scream... Happy screams, but oh so loud. He clenches his fists and tightens his neck, and gives it all he's got. Afterwards, a look of satisfaction comes over his face for the sound he has produced. I hope this phase is short!)

This is a birthday tradition. We planted this pine tree on my birthday when we were engaged, and we've gone back every year to see it (small hike behind the Draper Temple). It's gotten huge...it used to be about 6 inches tall, and one sole branch!

We attended the baptism of the daughter of a family that Grant taught on his mission. Absolutely wonderful!  LOVE this photo... like Father like son! :)