Sightseeing in DC, with a Million BFFs!
/What a perfect day! Sara and I explored the area all around the Capitol today, getting the lay of the land so we could find our bearings during tomorrow's big event. The city is going through a transformation as it prepares to host millions for the swearing in and celebration of our 44th President. The crowds are definitely growing - that was apparent from the moment I walked through Union Station.
As people filled nearly every inch of sidewalk, barricades filled nearly every inch of streets surrounding the mall.
Still, nobody could deny the electricity in the air as the inauguration approaches! As we passed by historic buildings, one after another, I couldn't stop taking pictures - and those of you who know me, know that I can snap dozens of pictures of something mundane, so you can imagine how many images I will end up having of this trip!
As we made our way down Independence Avenue we spotted a building that looked like a conservatory - it was the United States Botanic Garden...a great photo-op as well as a chance to warm up!
Once we were warm and toasty we continued on our sight seeing mission. I wanted to see the new "Newseum." It wasn't that far away - my navigator Sara comes through again, helping me regain my sense of direction when I get turned around! This place is so amazing, even Sara wanted to spend the rest of our afternoon their! It has working studios, broadcast news history, interactive exhibits and a rockin' gift shop! I couldn't resist buying a t-shirt that says "News Junkie."
On our way back to Union Station, the crowds were unbelievable!
We were supposed to meet up with friends and go out to dinner, but there was no way we would have been able to get anywhere quickly and we were tired and hungry! Thank goodness the crew on the Inaugural Train/Hotel had wonderful "snacks" on board! It really was enough for dinner -plus it was wonderful sharing tales with our travel companions... here's Debra and her famous t-shirt. She has extended family from all over the country here!
Here's the gang from Dekalb! Joe and Jean Vaughn (on the left) had taken the Cherry Blossom trip with American Rail Excursions - when they heard about an Inaugural train trip they said "Sign us up!"
And finally, what a way to end the evening - here's Tanya and Steve Davis on their way to the Illinois Inaugural Ball. I'm living vicariously through them!