What a WOW Day at the Smithsonian
When a dream comes true, often it is impossible to say what about the event was your most favorite. This was the case last week when we went with “Ellen” to the Smithsonian on her birthday, December 3. For so many months, it seemed like an impossible dream to appear as Ellen on her birthday with her exhibit at the National Museum of American History. Finally, through the efforts of VA FACS teacher Diane Johnson and her husband Ken, we met the right folks who could make it happen, and we were finally on our way. We had an entire 9 hours of rain on our way to Arlington, Virginia, but Thursday dawned clear, cool and sunny. It was just perfect for a day at the museum.
Ken works for the Smithsonian in Budget and Management and his special tour for us, along with his insights into the total Smithsonian operation, were indeed a special treat. He actually works with the White House to advocate for the entire Smithsonian budget. We have visited numerous times, but this time, we learned so much more. The Smithsonian actually encompasses 19 Museums, 9 research centers and the National Zoo.
Ken and Diane have lived all over the world as Ken was career military before assuming his position with the Smithsonian. His love for his country as well as a fondness for the Smithsonian was evident throughout our special tour.
After our tour of the Castle ( the original Smithsonian building) we hurried across the Mall to the American History Museum where we met Amy Bartow-Melia, Director of Public Programs for this museum. Amy has been with the Smithsonian for 12 years and her knowledge as well as her passion were quite evident. She was joined by Susan Walther, Senior Public Program Coordinator. (right below)
We were shown to the Salon where I left my costume to be used later for the performance.
Before lunch, we were joined by FACS professionals from Virginia, long time friends Janet Phillips and Bev Card. 
After lunch, it was time to dress as Ellen and proceed on to her exhibit in the West Wing. 
This was a perfect place to stand and share with museum visitors a small part of the remarkable story of Ellen IN HER OWN WORDS. I have performed these words countless times, but never have I felt more inspired than I did standing beside Ellen at the Smithsonian on her birthday.
These four young women were so enthralled in the message from Ellen. I wish so much that they had told me their names.
After the presentation, we were treated to yet another back stage tour which included Historic Costumes, Vintage Jewelry and finally, the Quilts. We were hosted by three more passionate, knowledgeable members of the museum staff. 
(L to R) Doris, Katherine, Susan.
Nancy Davis is a Curator for the Division of Home and Community Life.
(L) Nancy with a quinceanera dress-this is a dress for Latino girls coming-of-age party at age 15. This is a very difficult piece to acquire in the collection as most young women want to keep their dress. Thousands upon thousands of dollars are spent to keep this Latino tradition for young girls.
Katherine Dirks is Associate Curator in the same Division with a special interest in WWI and WWII textiles. We were pleased to learn that Katherine is a former CFS Textiles grad from Purdue so we had fun sharing stores of our times back on campus. 
Kathy showed us all of the equipment that they utilize to date various textiles.
Doris Bowman is an Associate Curator in the same Division, but her expertise is with the antique quilts and antique needlework tools. Each place we visited held more fascinating treasures than the one before, and at day’s end, we could no more tell you our favorite as they ALL were. What a fabulous time we had with dedicated museum staff willing to share these national treasures with us. Ellen would have loved every minute of it as we did.
Just two of the gorgeous old quilts that are stored in the Smithsonian collections.