Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

We made it!

We were in such a huge hurry to get to Oklahoma to see Oklahoma City's National Memorial and Museum before 5 p.m. knowing that  that's when the last tickets were sold for the day.  We didn't want to wait until the next morning because we had somewhere else to be.  :)

We actually got into town a little early so we found the temple in Yukon, Oklahoma just outside Oklahoma City.  Little bit of trivia for you.  Yukon is home of Garth Brooks.  At least his growing up years.

Then, we went on crazy toll roads that made you pay to enter AND to get off of them.  That was new.  And....with exact change!  Do you just drive until you run out of gas, do they hold you hostage on the freeway or what?

I remember when the Oklahoma City bombing happened.  C was two and a half and I was due with A in just two months.  I remember crying and really being upset watching the news coverage when they were showing the bombed buildings, the live footage, the survivors, and wondering how in the world someone could do such a thing.  When we started to map out our trip, I made sure that we could fit in Oklahoma City for the very reason of seeing the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum.

I really don't know how to put into words what I saw that day.  It was beautiful.  The museum.  The memorial.  We listened to live footage, saw artifacts, read stories, learned of heroism, and saw how people from all walks of life come together and unite when tragedy strikes.  Why is that?  Why do we wait for that to happen to put all differences aside and come together?

As we walked around, I couldn't help but feel as though the families and friends left behind, were at peace with the memorial left on their loved ones behalf.  I was so grateful that I was able to be there, especially with my children.

Everyone needs to go on a road trip.  Yes, time is money, the price of gas is crazy, a car full of kids is difficult, but the things we get from exploring our very own country are priceless. More to come when I wrap up this trip.  Pull out your Rand McNally map book and go see our country!  Go to Oklahoma City and visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum.  It's a must see and experience for everyone!  Click here to see their website.

Next stop.  Chimney Rock, Nebraska