Normandy D-Day Museum in France

When I held each of my boys after they were born, one of my hopes was to explore the world with them. They've long been told the world can be the best classroom of all. They've never seemed happier than when exploring the beaches of Normandy. First, we began at Dover Castle in England, used by Churchill during WW II. From Dover we sailed to Calais.

Once in the Normandy area, the boys visited the D-Day museum and actual bunkers used during the historic fight. Patrick thought he found a bullet. A boy might only hope to find a remnant, and be part of that day. We identified it otherwise and enjoyed our time on the beaches. It was covered with starfish of all things.

We also visited Sainte Mere-Eglise where Private John M. Steele famously hung from the spire during battle.

Not to be overlooked, Patrick was able to order dinner at a Subway in the countryside. At least he picked up more than nursery rhymes and was able to carry on basic dialogue. Patrick, Connor and Nick each said it was their best day ever spent anywhere in Europe and the first place they'd want to return one day with their children, if they could. Watching Private Ryan has never been the same.