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Monday, June 16, 2008

Just A First Peek...

I have a great affection for this city, our nation's capitol. I have been privileged to spend a great deal of time in the DC Metro area over the years and have come to love it's monuments, parks, shops, restaurants and history. For anyone who may be planning a trip here in the future, I have oodles (Yes, I said oodles!) of ideas of must sees and dos. Not that I know more than those who actually LIVE here but I know the area well from a tourist's perspective! From some of the oldest museums (The Smithsonian), to the newest (The Museum of the Native American), it is a treasure trove of learning and adventure. The Holocaust Museum is one of the most moving and powerful places I have visited in my entire life. As somber as the subject matter is, in the end, you are left with a pure sense of hope and the light of the enduring human spirit.
As lovely as the city is by day, it seems almost magical at dusk. Even the most staid buildings, like the US Treasury Department's offices, take on an ethereal glow. The next 4 photos were taken at the World War II memorial. It was one of my must sees this trip. I had yet to experience it's power and was awestruck by it. I am, as many of you know, a lover of history but particularly of the WW III era. My father served in the Pacific during the war so it is especially meaningful to me.
One of the most iconic monuments in the DC area is most assuredly the Washington Memorial.
The museums of the Smithsonian are amazing but I love the architecture of the *Old* Smithsonian building. It is a wonder from any angle. Arlington Cemetery is a very special spot and a must see for any American. You could spend an entire day here and not see each unique aspect of this sacred place. The next 3 photos were taken at the Lincoln memorial. It is one of the most recognizable sights in America and one of the most popular destinations for every tourist.
It is a well designed city with a easily accessible Metro system. It is also a great walking city...even with the heat turned up to *High*! Plenty of shady areas, places to sit and rest or reflect and lots of great little spots to have a bite to eat. One of our favorites is in the cafe located on the grounds of the Holocaust Museum. It is has an amazing vegetarian menu for a small establishment and also features kosher meals as well.
The parks are so beautiful and the streets are clean and well maintained befitting a nation's capital city.
And remember, the museums are free...the memorials are free...the glorious art galleries are free...touring the Capital building or White House is free. Just speak with one of your state's congress persons or Senators about passes. Free is a wonderful word isn't it? And free just seems to be a word that runs through my head as I tour this city...free. I am free because I am a citizen of this nation. This country is not perfect, no, not infallible, but it is a shining example of the word *FREE*'s definition. I.E. a: having the legal and political rights of a citizen b: enjoying civil and political liberty c: enjoying political independence or freedom from outside domination d: enjoying personal freedom : not subject to the control or domination of another...
And yes, to be free to ramble on aimlessly on my blog! Free truly IS a marvelous word and Washington DC IS a marvelous city.

25 comments:

smilnsigh said...

OH I am first! :-))))))))))))


Mari-Nanci
Smilnsigh blog

smilnsigh said...

I'm so silly. ,-) I just had to get that posted, because sometimes when I think I will be first to comment someplace, I miss it, by composing. So... this ol' gal has learned! Wait not for composition. Just jump right in and claim first place in line. -gigggles-

OK, back to reality. A lovely entry you have posted here. We only got there once as a family. When our daughter was an intern for a Congressman, while in college. Though a short trip, it was wonderful and I'd love to return some day. But... I kind of think our traveling days are behind us.

Thanks to all you bloggers who still take me places, with you!

Mari-Nanci
Smilnsigh blog

Picket said...

Hello friend....I loved the tour!!!! So much history in such a short post..it was amazing. Thanks so much for coming by and I'm glad to know I am not the only one with multiple style disorder!! lol lol Hope you are having a great Monday!

Cheryl Wray said...

I love D.C. also and your photos are INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!!!!

Janet said...

Beautiful Sue. Can't wait to see more.

Janet

Justabeachkat said...

Hi Sweet Susie!

Remember me? I've been so bad about blog reading lately...not because I don't want to read, but because of my crazy life recently. Lots of company, which has been wonderful and then all the medical tests, "hoopla", etc. I'm back now though...finally.

You've been a busy, busy girl. I've really enjoyed reading all your posts I've missed and seeing all your beautiful photos. Life has been fun for you and your family.

Hugs!
Kat

Melissa said...

Free? Free did you say? That is very encouraging to a girl on a tight budget!

Love the pictures, as always!

Connie said...

I LOVE this country!!!!!! It's the best in the world!!!! I LOVE the brave men and women who serve to protect it also......

Smoochies and God bless this country,
Connie

Rosemary said...

Thanks for the great tour Susie!!
I have never been there.
Looks like a great trip.
Rosemary

Lisa Pogue said...

Yay you're back. I love these pics and can't wait to see and hear more about your trip!!

Pamela said...

I want to go back there -- and do all the tours and just soak in the smithsonian.

Meggie said...

Gosh, Susie, it's been years since I've been to DC. Thanks for the reminder of what a great place it is and another reminder of just what it means to be free. Great shots!

PAT said...

Beautiful post, Sue!

Pat

Anonymous said...

Good Morning Sweet Sue!
I loved this tour - and of course you captured everything so beautifully with your camera and amazing talent. I remember visiting our nation's capitol as a 12 year old with my family and being in such awe of its' importance and meaning. Thank you so much for taking me back there again.
xo,
Kim

Alice said...

Your pictures really capture the great things about Washington. I believe I just might have to plan a visit there for this fall.

bj said...

wonderful and inspiring post, suzie Q....
hugs, bj

Anonymous said...

I love DC. what great photos.

FHL said...

Welcome home!!!

Such beautiful photos! D is actually returning from a very short TDY in DC today.... (two days early) hooray :o)

He's a runner and always looks forward to being able to jog around all the memorials and sites when he's sent there. My goodness, that would probably tempt me to take up running for a week too! Then again, maybe not ;o)

Sending Hugs!

Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality said...

Beautiful pics, Sue! I have never been to DC, but would love to go one day. You captured it well!

xo,
Rhoda

Donna said...

I love DC! Love your pics too!
Hugs,
Donna

Pat @ Mille Fiori Favoriti said...

Your photos are spectacular! So artistic and they made me look at a city I've been to many times in a different way. Thanks! I loved your commentary too. Washington DC is a wonderful place to visit.

Glad you are home safe and sound
Hugs, Pat

Gretchen said...

Indeed, free is a beautiful thing. Glad you enjoyed your trip. The pictures are beyond fabulous. xxxooogretchen

Anonymous said...

someday I will do the touring of DC. I just think at this stage my kiddos wouldn't appreciate it.

Anonymous said...

I love DC as well, such great photo opportunities

Kari (GrannySkywalker) said...

That's it...DC is DEFINITELY moving up on the list of places we need to visit. Great pictures!!!
Kari