Washington D.C.

I began my visit to D.C. with a gentle reacquaintance. I walked around the National Mall this morning and revisited some of the monuments and memorials that I was already familiar with from previous visits. One interesting observation is that the city is far more locked down than the last time I visited in 2014. Even some of the parks with statues are fenced in (with really ugly plastic fencing), and you can’t get near the White House. Tourists were taking photos from two streets away through black metal bars. I didn’t bother. I took the tour in 2014 when I brought my mom here to check off a bucket item on her list. That will have to suffice.

I took the afternoon to take care of some tasks and do some trip planning, both for the rest of this week and later on in the trip. D.C. is probably the second most difficult destination (NYC will be the most difficult) just because of the plethora of opportunities. I am going to try to visit some lesser-known places this week.

Of course, I am having to embrace the people. They are part of the story. You are not getting photos without people in this city. Although I was asked to move this morning as one woman was trying to capture an iPhone panoramic at the MLK memorial. At 10 AM. Seriously??? If you really want to do that, try 6 AM.

I will be meeting a friend for lunch tomorrow, as well as taking care of a couple of personal appointments. I have a few destinations planned, but not sure I will get to all of them. Stay tuned.