I grew up in the west where public transportation existed, but wasn’t really a thing, but when I decided to go into DC during Grad Week and leading into Memorial Weekend, it would have been idiotic to drive. I was actually nervous about taking the Metro! Whether it was New York or London, the only other time public transportation came into my world, I would just grab Shyla’s hand and she would magically get us to where we needed to be. She’s amazing! This time I was on my own.

What would I do without strangers being willing to help me out: How to pay for parking? I had to ask. How to buy the Metro card and how much? I had to ask. What stop to get off of? I had to ask? Where the heck is my car when I returned at 9:00 PM? I had to ask. I am truly NOT that hopeless, but it was ridiculous! Even with my struggles, walking 10+ miles, and getting thoroughly exhausted, it was worth the trip. Here’s the picture dump I promised

The home of the President

Lincoln and a couple of famous speeches

Washington Memorial and Reflection Pool

To prove I really was there and didn’t just download all these pictures!

Vietnam Memorial and Jefferson Memorial

WWII Memorial and an odd blue rooster on a building

This is the Korean Memorial – new since the last time I was here.

It was a busy day at the Capitol. Are there any Schoolhouse Rock fans out there? This is my impression of Bill waiting to become a Law (just think…… I’m just a bill. yes I’m only a bill and I’m sitting here on Capitol Hill….)

I didn’t go to any museums, but here are some pics of the Smithsonian. I think you would need a couple of days to go through just one of these – they are huge!

I love that all the locals treat this whole Mall area like it’s a normal park: there’s volleyball, softball leagues, dodgeball, soccer, yoga, jogging, etc

Everywhere you look in DC there is a very large, historic building, or a statue, or a memorial. It really is quite amazing. The whole area oozes history. I spent my next free afternoon in the little historic town of Frederick – funky art, history lessons all over the place, a long walk in Carroll Creek Park, Thursday Alive at 5 live music – it was interesting.

George Washington evidently had a meeting with Benjamin Franklin at a pub around here somewhere. I have no idea how they know that, but it’s important!

I also saw an old boss of mine – Sorry Andrew, I completely forgot to take a picture! It was great catching up with you! Being close to Baltimore, locations to stay are scarce, but I found a great Harvest Host place that let me stay for 3 nights! It was beautiful – thank you Rich at Forever Mow Acres!

Tip of the Day: Do NOT plan on using the public bathrooms in DC. They are gross! Hold it or find another alternative.