Happy New Year 2014!

Although our DC area adventure was originally scheduled to end in 2013, we were able to stay for one more year when Erik's term at the NSF was extended. While we will transition away from DC in 2014, we have continued to enjoy all of the opportunities that the area provides.

• In January, we woke up early and stood in the cold for several hours for the chance to witness the presidential inauguration.  
• In March and April, we traveled to the Tidal Basin several times, only to find the Cherry Blossoms uncooperative. But, we spied a few lovely blossoms in this annual treat.
• May brought one of our favorite events, embassy open houses. We visited Kazakhstan, Australia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Peru on one weekend. The following weekend, we returned for the EU celebration, dropping in on Croatia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary, Netherlands, and Austria.
• We continued running, completing many 5Ks, an 8K (where Carter finished 3rd in his age category), and a 10K. We are working toward a 10-miler in April. 

In addition to success running, Carter also achieved several milestones.

• He turned eight and received First Communion and Reconciliation.
• One of Carter's favorite birthday presents was a photography lesson from a good friend (who also happens to be a fabulous photojournalist). The lesson paid off - Carter's photo finished in second place in a county-wide competition (see below). 
• He also continues to improve in his favorite extra-curricular activities, soccer and piano.

While DC is an amazing place, it is also close to many other great destinations.

• We combined business and pleasure in January, flying to Florida for a conference as well as Epcot and the World of Harry Potter.
• We visited Harpers Ferry in May, Shenandoah in June to climb Old Rag, the Outer Banks in North Carolina and New England in July, Rehoboth Beach (Delaware) in September and October, and Gettysburg and Antietam in November.
• After a quick trip to see family in Michigan for Thanksgiving, we returned via Niagara Falls and were amazed by the fantastic glaze of ice.

Lea and Carter at Niagara Falls

Carter's Award-Winning Photo

Grandpa Bistak, Fr. Tuck, and Carter at First Communion

We wish everyone a joyous and peaceful New Year.