The other day I realized that I’ve lived in DC (or just outside of DC!) for 17.5 years–that’s exactly half my life! And even after all that time, there are several sights that still give me a thrill every single time. Here they are, in no particular order:
A motorcade, especially the Presidential motorcade
There is nothing like standing on the sidewalk, or being the first car stopped on the cross-street, when a fleet of police cars, black SUVs and black limos drives by, sirens blaring and lights flashing. You can always tell when its the Presidential motorcade because of the sheer number of vehicles (20-30 total) and the communications van, including video camera, towards the rear. I even enjoyed seeing it when I knew one of my not-so-favorite presidents was sitting inside. But for four+ years now, when I know Mr. Obama was in there somewhere, I am simply over-the-moon to experience it.
The Cherry Blossoms
The Cherry Blossoms around the Tidal Basin are a sight to behold every year, but when peak bloom corresponds with the actual festival and mild weather, well, DC doesn’t get any better than that!
The Monuments at Night
There is something truly magical about visiting the monuments at night. They are less crowded and you can really feel the reverence in the air. Friends and I visited the monuments at night often during college and I’m just now realizing that we’ve never taken our kids there at night. I think it’s time to fix that!
The Capitol Dome
I’ll never forget the moment I realized I HAD to live in DC: I was on an overnight visit at the college that would become my alma mater and the sophomore I was staying with and her friends took some other perspective students and me on a nighttime visit to the Capitol. (This was LONG before the current security measures.) There was a full moon just above the dome and it took my breath away. I moved to DC a few months later and the rest, as they say, is history.
Aimee blogs about whatever is on her mind at Smiling Mama and updates Family Friendly Prince George’s with all the activities that keep her family busy!
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Totally agree! Probably one of the things (besides friends) I miss most about living in DC, the drive home from work and passing the Capitol. I always loved seeing the red light on and knowing that Congress was still in session.
The capitol at night is very very beautiful. I also love the Kennedy Center!
Thanks for this! Thanks for reminding me to take the time to look around.
Agree with you on all of these! Whenever we’ve been out of town, Brad and I will say, “We live here!” excitedly as we see the monuments/mall when we’re headed home.
Yep ! Right there with ya !!!
Sixteen years ago, I was working in a federal child care center, and we would play on the lawn across from the Corcoran on some mornings and afternoons. One day, the president’s motorcade drove by while my class of three year olds was walking on the sidewalk. First Lady Clinton popped her head out and waved at us! I had only lived in the area for a few months by that point, so I was absolutely blown away!
I agree–I just love seeing the monuments at night. It’s also lovely to drive over the bridge at National Harbor with the lights at night. Just gorgeous!