I guess my friends had a good time the last time they were here because they came back again on Saturday (or else they thought I was likely to find out about their trip so they decided to be nice and invite me along). This time they brought my sister, Elissa, with them, and Dana’s cousin Stacy came with us as well.
A common theme for the day: crowds. I thought that a cold day in late February might mean fewer tourists, but I was mistaken. It was difficult getting around the museums: there were tons of people milling around; jostling; it hard to see things because people would stand forever in front of something, reading and taking pictures.
Since I knew we’d be doing a lot of walking, I had told Elissa in advance to wear comfortable shoes. She showed up in a pair of high-heeled boots that she assured us wouldn’t slow her down or make her feet hurt. We all gave her grief, but you know what? After walking for several miles over the course of the day, she was fine. And Dana, who had worn sneakers, had a blister on her heel. Go figure.
Our first stop was the Holocaust Memorial Museum. It wasn’t the most uplifting way to start our day, but it was interesting. They have a self-guided setup that spans four floors. We appreciated the fact that an elevator takes you to the top floor and you work your way down using the stairs, instead of vice versa. There are a lot of exhibits, and there’s really too much to take in in just one day if you’re planning to read everything that’s available. We were there for several hours, and there was a lot of stuff I didn’t read.
After we ate lunch, we went to the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. That one was okay. They have a lot of stuffed mammals, if you’re into that kind of thing. But I did get to see the Hope diamond. And Elissa, who loves orchids, was able to see the temporary orchid exhibit.
Want to see more? (Click photos to see a larger version.)
Here we are walking down Constitution Avenue: Me, Teresa, Elissa, Stacy.
Dana, holding a giant cockroach at the Natural History museum. Ew.
All of us at the orchid exhibit at the Natural History museum: Teresa, me, Stacy, Elissa, Dana.
On the way back to the car, Stacy had her picture taken with a park policeman. When she put her hand on the horse’s flank the officer said, “Lucky horse.”
(Thanks to Dana for the photos.)
9 Comments
Sounds like your weekend wasn’t too shabby, either:-) I see women tourists all the time walking around in high heeled boots and I think they’re a little crazy, too. But maybe they’re randomly comfortable. I don’t get it, either.
Dear zandria. whew what a day. I get museum fatigue after one hour in one place, so I truly commend you. The weather looks delectable, even if it was chilly.
I can’t wait to see that orchid exhibit!
Oh I am sooo jealous of all those museums right in your back yard!
I used to work at a popular museum and I can tell you this:
Don’t try to go during a school break…or bad weather. Everyone has the same idea — “find somewhere to go that’s not too expensive that we can take the kids and keep them occupied so we don’t go bonkers”…museums are perfect for that.
Best time? Weekdays after nap time. Don’t laugh. I’m serious. Dinner time too if the museum is open late — you’ll have it all to yourself.
I hate crowds!
I’m glad you all had a nice time Zan!!
Hi Zandria,
I’ve been reading your site for a while now, but never posted before.
I just came across your post on “Back in skinny jeans” and finally came around to reading your post about your back from November 9.
Just wanted to tell you that that was really impressive and very brave indeed.
You seem to be a very beautiful girl, both inside and out, so who cares about the imperfection we all have, no matter small or big. It is what makes us “us”.
I myself was hit by a truck some years ago and as a rsult my legs are now covered in scars, especially my right upper leg where the skin was scraped off.
I guess that means goodbye to summer skirts, but it also means hello to awareness of your mortality and the cherishing of every moment that comes with it.
If you can’t change something, accept it and embrace the good stuff it brings.
Thanks for posting and reminding me of this again!
Note to everyone reading: Do not decide to wear brand new tennis shoes and “break them in” when going to DC.
I had a great time and can’t wait to do it again! I’ve already decided I want to go back to the Holocaust Museum one Wed morning when I’m off work, just to be able to take more of it in..hopefully without the huge crowds!
PS. The cockroach was SOOOO cute!
I’m jealous. I haven’t been to D.C. in years and I love the Smithsonian (exxcept the cockroaches please). What fun for you and your friends.
Hi Zandria,
Nice to hear you had a good time in DC.
I enjoy your Flickr work and was starting to worry. Can’t wait for whats next. Enjoy, Al