American Roots

Tuesday I hopped a plane to DC and now I'm here in our nation's lovely capital, exploring and soaking in the American greatness. I did spend 3 1/2 mos here the year before I left for Brazil, but it's definitely one of those places you need to return to every few years, especially because for me it serves as a sort of in between Europe and United States experience. Some may disagree with that statement, but coming from LA, it is very much a true statement. First, there is a functioning metro which normal people use, there are classically designed buildings, a plethora of mind-blowing art, and lots of tourists. Hence, Europe-like.

But unlike Europe, here they speak English, and I have wonderful friends here who have space for me to stay. Tuesday consisted simply of a trip to Ray's Hell Burger, which is always a pleaser, and catching up a bit with Paige, which made me supremely happy. Wednesday I slept in, and took the metro to the Mall area, where I stopped in at the Botanic Garden, and the National Gallery.

I found striking the photography exhibit in the East gallery of the botanic garden where the photographer took close up photos and displayed them on stark backgrounds.

Also very droolworthy was the OVERsized

plant pedestal found in the west gallery.

I was particularly struck by the grandeur, strength, and beauty of the capitol building as I left the botanic garden and glanced up to behold it. After being out of the United States for 18mos I am refreshed and loving seeing these iconic sights which hold so much significance to us as Americans.

I couldn't help but document the flourishing hydrangeas situated so happily on each side front garden of the national gallery.

As I sat and relaxed for a moment on that hydrangea-surrounded bench, I delighted in my shiny red mocs and decided to take a picture of those as well.

Funny thing, I happened to be wearing red white and blue which is very uncharacteristic for me, but appropriate given the setting.