David Multer

Time for another gigantic day in our nation’s capitol. A view from the hotel, then it’s off to our first stop Arlington Cemetery. The shuttle takes us first to visit with Robert and John Kennedy. Then it’s off to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The rest of the cemetery awaits. To avoid the pounding our feet took yesterday, we’ve arranged quite a treat for the rest of the day. A limo gives us the grand tour around the more difficult to reach parts of the city. First we head up the hills of Georgetown. ...

Today is going to be a very busy day. First stop is the Washington Monument. Quite the view from the top, though it is a bit hazy. The Holocaust Museum was an overwhelming place. A few more beautiful sites along the way. And then one of Monica’s famous self portraits while we have lunch at Gordon Biersch. I couldn’t believe it when I spotted this place. Feels like we’re back in the Bay Area. ...

We’re visiting the capitol for a few days this year. The kids have never been, and Monica missed the class trip she was really hoping to join. Instead Charlotte arranged a whirlwind tour of our own. First stop is the International Spy Museum. Plenty of sights to see in the city.

I’m still pretty tired from my trip, but I can always take it if the beach is involved. Monica is off doing her own thing, while the rest of the family hang together. The water is really warm today, but of course it’s all relative. It’s a small group tonight given the late notice. It’s good to catch up with our friends.

I’m off in Bulgaria while my family enjoys a trip to theMonterey Bay Aquarium. A couple of great kelp forest photos, and Charlotte’s favorite scary fish. My favorite spot is the shore exhibit. Gabe took some real nice photos of the birds. The kids look like they’re enjoying themselves. And the award for the weirdest fish on the planet goes to the sunfish. A colorful group of reef fishes. ...

A mother from Gabe’s class is putting on a monster party at her house for the whole class. I was stunned at the size of the event, but I’m sure Gabe will really enjoy himself. I’ll let Charlotte pick him up.

Monica’s arranged her own little soiree with her friends. I’m not quite sure what they’re doing wondering around the house, and I am sure I don’t want to know. Time to hit the pool. Seems there was a bit of an accident, but nothing nurse Charlotte can’t fix. Time for a little beach volleyball, only a few miles from the beach.

It took a ridiculous amount of time before I finally got the boat back in the water. The engine is running great and it’s a beautiful day. The fish may not be biting, but it’s great to have Nick on board. At least we got a nice shot of a sea otter. Next time it’s Charlotte’s turn to join us. Not sure what to make of this one. Maybe I could use Photoshop and insert Monica onto the deck of the boat. Look what we caught! ...

It’s a big day for Gabe, and for all of us. After 11 years of elementary school across all our children, it’s finally time to say farewell. We’ve loved being a part of this great school, and I know the kids have really enjoyed it as well. Zach is graduating also, and his family is looking so proud. And let’s give Gabe a big hand. One last job before saying goodbye. ...

Next up is Monica’s graduation from middle school. The three musketeers are all dressed up and ready to go. Now if only I can make survive the heat while sitting in the Scotts Valley sun. And here’s the class of 2007. The procession begins. Even the pets are dressed for the occasion. Here comes our special girl. Nick is so very proud of his little sister. I’m sure Gabe is too, but he’s hiding from the heat in the safety of the nearby trees. ...