Rockwell Exibhit

**Post by Tom

Yesterday, we went to the Norman Rockwell exhibit at the Smithsonian American Art Museum with Matt and Lindsey.  It was pretty cool.  The actual collection is owned by filmmakers Steven Spielberg and George Lucas--their private collections.  There were a lot of paintings and drawings.  Yesterday was probably the closest I'll ever get to Spielberg or Lucas.  My favorite painting was Freedom of Speech, which I've seen in prints and wherever else over the years.  There were all sorts of people there:  out-of-town families on vacation, locals like us, and art critic wannabes.  It was a good time for all.  What struck me, though, was the America I saw in Rockwell's works.  I couldn't help but think that Rockwell's America is either dying or no longer exists.  It was sad.

We kicked off our day with breakfast in Bethesda at the Old Georgetown Grille.  Eleanor had some of Shannon's waffle.  She really liked my home fries, though.  The breakfast was solid, but the company was even better--my wife, daughter and our beloved friends, Matt and Lindsey.  The corned beef was pretty dicey, though--tasted like dog food.  After strolling around the museum, we went back to Bethesda.  It was a good ride, but the Metro car was pretty hot.  There were some rough smells, too.

We hit up a nice grinder shop.  I got a cheesesteak and it was very good.  After that, we went in the pool and Eleanor loved it.  She loves the water.  Her personality is reallying emerging; it's a beautiful thing.  She's a sweet girl and has a great sense of humor.  I'm so proud of her.

Then we had Popsicles and watched New Moon, the vampire/werewolf/teen angst movie.  I can't believe that movies like that sell.  It was a pretty unoriginal story with characters who weren't too compelling.  I didn't find myself rooting for anyone.  Still, it was a great time.  I'm blessed with loving family and friends and have way more than I deserve.