The Great Butterfly Release!

After a good nights sleep at Eric and Jenny's home, it was time for another day full of fun and adventure.  Our first stop of the day was to the National Cathedral and Outdoor Flower Market. 

After considering many possible tourist destinations, the cathedral and flower market ended up being our destination of choice primarily because we needed an appropriate place to set our beautiful butterflies free. None of our family had ever visited the National Cathedral before; however, Jenny's description of the architectural masterpiece and surrounding gardens was spot on, and the great butterfly release commenced in one of the most lovely settings ever!

It took us quite a while to coax the little butterflies out of the temporary butterfly house and into the wide open world, but eventually, after being passed from little finger to little finger, they spread their wings and took to the fragrant breeze.  It was surprisingly magical for all who witnessed their transformation and corresponding liberation!

With the butterflies lost to the wind,  it was time to simply admire the flowers,

both outdoors, and in.  The cathedral was hosting an international flower display which we wandered through as long as the kids would allow.

Then we pointed our noses toward the food venders, and after selecting a wide variety of street fair fodder, took an afternoon picnic on the cathedral lawn.

When lunch was over, we listened to a few of the groups performing in the marketplace,

and then headed down the road to our second stopover of the day....

The National Zoo.