Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore gets its own post because it had that big of an impact.

Yesterday after driving FOREVER we were hungery, tired, and each person present in our vehicle was on the very brink of a meltdown.  Our campground was 25 minutes from Mt. Rushmore and it was getting late.  Our plan was to view Rushmore and then stay for the 9 o'clock illumination show.  It was 7:30 and we finally decided to scrap going to the campground first and head over to check an item off our bucket list.

Upward we went towards our destination and upon arriving were blessed to step out into low 60 temps which almost immediately changed our attitudes. Like high giving, fist pumping kind of change.  We changed clothes in the camper, packed cameras and were on our way.  Seeing the first glimpse of the four presidents carved into the mountain was an awe-inspiring moment.  This structure, the one you've seen countless times on tv, ads, movies, is now in front  of you, in person, and it is grand.  We snapped a few quick pics and a nice lady took a few family photos for us.  We quickly made our way over to the cafe for a much needed meal and enjoyed the view of the presidents looking down on us while we ate.  It was during these moments that I felt drowed in emotion.  Maybe it was the altitude, gratefulness to fianlly be eating, current events in Charleston or just gratitude to be an American, but I got quite teary.  It just seems that people, in their lifetime, don't  get the chance to see this magnificent site, and I was feeling very blessed to be someone that was receiving the opportunity.  After eating we walked through the avenue of flags and found a spot to stand for the lighting ceremony.  A park ranger came out on the stage before the 100's seated in the amplitheater and proceeded to give an amazing overview of the building of Mt. Rushmore.  I am very grateful to the 400 men that fulfilled the role of helping to create this important emblem of American History.  

After the the park ranger finished we watched a movie that depicted the carving of Mount Rushmore and walked through each of the presidents represented, and their contribution to America.  Finally, the faces of the presidents were illuminated and we were entertained with some patriotic music.  To cap off the evening the ranger called forward all present veterans and had each one share their name and branch of service.  We left feeling very full-filled.

If you have a chance, visit Mount Rushmore.  It is a grerat reminder of the foundations of our country and government.  God Bless America!