Visitors- Escaping the snow and cold

 Last night, Jim's sister Margarethe and her husband Doug arrived for a long weekend visit. They were happy to escape the weather that was forecast for their area--"the coldest weekend so far this winter!" And we were delighted that they were able to enjoy our warm sunny day today. We started out the day with a good breakfast, and then headed to the Nixon Presidential Library.

 This was Doug's first visit to our home and also to a President's Library. 

 Of course, there is never enough time to read all that you want to...

 In the lobby, we saw this huge Lego display with trains that were running along the tracks and through the shipping yards. (And we immediately thought how our grandson Jayden would have loved to see this--he LOVES trains!)

An astronaut 

 It has been several years since we last visited this museum, and there have been many changes. One thing that I noticed this time was the huge role that Pat played in the life of her husband. She was the "most traveled" first lady at that time and certainly was a good-will ambassador to the hundreds of places that she visited. Having African roots, we were fascinated by the movies and pictures of her visits to several African countries. 

 A special exhibit called "Out of the Vault" featured many of the gifts that were given by other dignitaries to the president and his family. These beautiful dresses were included in the display, along with many different kinds of jewelry, carvings, and other artifacts. 

 Pat Nixon was actually adorned with this robe by some African women when she visited their country. (I just love the colors and embroidery...reminded me of "back home.")

 It was a lovely day to be outside and to enjoy all the gorgeous flowers and the beautiful landscape.

We even got to tour this helicopter that was used by three different presidents while in office, and flown in many different countries of the world. The dimensions seemed rather small by today's standards! We enjoyed our time at the museum then headed for lunch and an afternoon at the beach. (next post!)