What an amazing experience.  Ford's Theatre society  sure knows how to throw a GALA. Ford's not only honored us with a teacher tribute during the GALA, but they gave us the white glove treatment the entire weekend. We truly felt special and appreciated. The visit to the Capitol, , the White House, the GALA, and reception at the National Portrait Gallery were such amazing experiences. I felt like I was at teacher Disneyland (SoCal girl!)  It was almost too much -- was I taking it all in, would I remember each moment, was I taking enough pictures ?  It was awesome to get a behind the scenes experiences at the Capitol--pictures on the Speaker's balconey and in the Speaker's conference room,  visits to both the House and Senate Chambers (no cameras allowed), and a wonderful reception in Statuary Hall! The White House hospitality was out of this world. Everyone was so welcoming and courteous, music permeated every space, we were surrounded by history, posed in front of the Rose Garden and enjoyed the portraits and spaces I've only seen on television and in photos;  we were especially  honored to meet President and Dr. Biden (no cameras allowed, but we received a photo from the White House for "personal use" -- feel free to ask to see it when you see me.  The GALA was so special. We had met Scott Bakula, the GALA emcee, at the White House; he was so pesonalbe and so appreciative of us teachers, he was also an outstanding GALA emcee. I was so  touched to be  honored on this historic stage with 3 other outstanding teachers, and to represent outstanding teachers across the country.  The grand finale was a magical reception at the National Portrait Gallery.  Wow! Thanks to the Ford's Theatre Society, and all of my friends at Ford's who made this amazing weekend possible.  Thanks also to all my friends and family who helped me prep and cheered me on for this momentous event.  Thanks especially to my wonderful husband for being my plus one and sharing this special weekend with me.