Washington, DC - Day 3

Our Washington visit was hampered a bit by the fact that several of the subway stations, including the one closest to the hotel, were closed for repairs. So this morning we checked out of the hotel and moved the cars to Union Station. Then we walked to the mall from there, enjoying the scenery along the way. This photo was taken outside of Union Station.We walked past the capitol, and none of us could remember what the statue on top is. According to Wikipedia, it is the Statue of Freedom. We got a good view down the mall to the Washington Monument.We went through the Botanical Garden and saw some neat orchids. Then we headed for the Monument since AD stood in line this morning to get us all tickets to go up in the elevator. Thank you, AD! Here is the view of the White House and surrounding area.And the Lincoln Memorial and reflecting pool, with the Kennedy Center in the upper right.

Washington, DC - Day 2

While waiting for the rest of the family to arrive, W and I walked from our hotel (the Residence Inn on Vermont near Thomas Circle) to the National Geographic Museum. We really enjoyed the special gecko exhibit.
Then we all spent the afternoon at the National Zoo. The weather continues to be wonderful, so the zoo was pretty crowded, but we saw lots of neat animals.

Washington, DC - Day 1

Today was the first day of our family weekend in Washington. The family used my birthday as an excuse to get together to do some of the things we've been talking about but never get around to. W and I drove down today; the others arrive tomorrow. We took advantage of the gorgeous weather to walk around the National Arboretum before checking into the hotel. This bonsai pine is 155 years old!
We spent the evening at the Kennedy Center. We had dinner at the Cafe there and then spent the time before the performance enjoying the view from the terrace on the roof. Then we saw the play "Shear Madness" which was great fun.