Washington DC.

Today, I leave the Coast to Coast for MS team for a brief visit to Washington, DC. 

While in DC, I am receiving an award known as, the Gold Congressional Award Medal. The Congressional Award is an award for young Americans, established by the United States Congress in 1979 to "recognize initiative, service and achievement in young people." 

The Congressional Award recognizes the setting and meeting of goals in four program areas: Voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition/exploration. Based on time commitments to each of the areas, participants earn Bronze, Silver, or Gold Congressional  Award Certificates; and Bronze, Silver, or Gold Congressional Award Medals. 

Today is also the first day I will see my parents in over 5 weeks. We will spend time in DC together before attending the Award Ceremony. 

Tomorrow evening, I will be flying back to the Coast to Coast team to finish the bike ride with them!