Life in D.C.

I spent one week in D.C. and took maybe 15 pictures. I mostly bypassed the tourist hot spots and experienced the daily life in D.C., which was fantastic, aside from the nearly unbearable humidity.

I ate out a lot. A few signature places included Five Guys (burgers), Thomas Sweet Ice Cream in Georgetown, Etete (Ethiopian restaurant near Howard University), Rita's Ice Cream, and Au Bon Pain (bakery).

The metro was great. A trio of guys sang between the metro and my hotel in the afternoon rush hour that truly lifted the underground mood. I looked forward to their upbeat and talented voices on my way to my home base, but I didn't find them during my final days in D.C.

The best part of D.C. is its energy. Even if people are fighting for their one-sided issue, at least they are passionate about it. The atmosphere naturally encourages people to care about policy, economics, and all things secular. I can't help, but compare the Midwest mentality to the ones on the East Coast. Perhaps, Midwesterners feel so far removed physically from politics that they become complacent. It seems to take more effort to educate oneself in current events in the Midwest than it does on the East Coast.

I also had a personal realization during this trip. I am growing to like Modern and Contemporary Art. The Nelson-Atkins Museum and Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City has planted this seed. After years of looking at the same works, I was excited to see different exhibits at the National Gallery of Art. I feel like it still wasn't enough. I'd like to find more.