This spring semester I'm in a required class called N400: Nursing Global and Cultural Awareness, or something like that. Basically, I got to pick which of the many sections offered, each studying a different unique population. I chose the class focused on Veterans Health, which began with a week in Washington DC with the two goofiest, funniest, most relaxed professors in BYU's nursing program. They also happen to be veterans and are very passionate about caring for our veterans. They planned the most amazing week in Washington DC for us to really immerse ourselves in learning about our Nations history and the contribution of our vets, along with their unique health care needs.
This week was packed full with visits to the various monuments, museums, the VA hospital and VA central office, a tour of the pentagon, a full day visit at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, a trip to the DC temple, a tour of the capitol and meeting with one of our representatives, and Arlington Cemetery (which was probably my favorite part). I learned so much about our Vets and my gratitude for them and their sacrifice grew immensely.
Because I was mostly too lazy to take out my camera to take pictures, here are a few of the things we did via pictures.
This is Corinne, we grew up together and now we miraculously are in BYU Nursing program together, live in the same apartment complex and are in the same ward. Basically we are living the same life. This is in front of the monument to Iwo Jima. A veteran who served there met up with us and told us about his experience first hand. It was incredible.
Corinne and I again in front of the Capitol building. I love this building, I think it's beautiful and the picture really doesn't do it justice. Our first night in DC we ended at the Lincoln Memorial and watched the Capitol building as the sun set. It was breathtaking.
This is the Potomac and the restaurant Charthouse. Our professors treated us to dinner here the last night, and it was amazing. Alyse and I split a lava cake that was so amazing her husband dreamed about it the night after she described it to him.
The Washington Monument
We got to go to the top of the Washington Monument, which was an incredible view. (And just a small tidbit in case you are ever on some trivia show, this is the only one called a monument, because Washington was still alive when it was conceived. The rest are called Memorials (Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, etc.) because their honorees died before the structure was made.)
Corinne and I with the sun in our eyes at the World War II Memorial. This was a first for me, it wasn't built the last time I was in DC in 2001.
Julie and Julia anyone? This is Julia Child's kitchen. Its in the Museum of American History. We were pretty excited about it. The other girl in this picture is my friend Alyse. She was my roommate and gave the best footrubs and backrubs. Also, she's an amazing cook, in case you were wondering. She basically IS Julia Child.
With Corinne and Alyse at the Korean War Memorial. We were required by BYU to go everywhere in groups of at least three, luckily we are all friends. It was pretty convienent.
The beautiful DC temple
This is with my friend Jessica at Arlington Cemetery. I think this is one of my favorite places in Washington DC. There is such a neat spirit there. We went to the tomb of the unknown soldier and they played taps while we were there, which was a moving experience. It's powerful to see the graves of so many who have given their lives for our country.
This woman is amazing, here are just a few of the reasons why I love her:
