We began our day at the House of Sweden in Georgetown, where we enjoyed a delectable lunch as well as a taste of Swedish Glog, which offered quite a punch! We then headed off into the city in search of the National Christmas Tree.
We had read that it had been transported from Vermont, and we were eager to view the finished product standing near the White House. We exited the Metro and began the hike down to the Visitor's center, where we were told that all the Visitor Centers had been cut by the federal government, but for one: The White House Visitor Center. We hiked on over, only to find it closed for the day. So, we decided to head off on our own, thinking that such a large tree would be easily found.
One of the obvious changes since our last visit to the capital, was the increase in barricades and road closures, particularly around the White House. After pounding the pavement for several blocks, we finally managed to make our way nearly the whole way around the White House when we spotted a Menorah in the distanced. Marty was sure that the tree would be nearby, and so we headed in that direction when I spotted what looked like a pretty sorry looking tree. I honestly did not believe that what I was gazing upon was this infamous Vermont tree of which I had read. But, Marty asked a security guard who confirmed, with a smile, that it was, indeed the tree, and that its official lighting ceremony is scheduled for Dec.9. I'm hoping that it stays standing that long, because right now it looks like it wants to mimic the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Although the tree was quite a disappointment, the rest of the evening was quite the opposite. We headed to the beautifully decorated Willard Hotel where we listened to a beautiful choral group singing Christmas carols in the lobby. Right next door was an absolutely wonderful French Restaurant where we enjoyed a scrumptious dinner. After all of the walking that we did, we didn't even feel guilty enjoying dessert!
Be sure to check out the flickr photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jrcrazy/sets/72157625405513275/
Be sure to check out the flickr photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jrcrazy/sets/72157625405513275/
One of the wonderful things about walking... and walking... and walking while exploring a city, is the chance to eat fabulous meals guilt-free. Good for you and Marty! How interesting that D.C. is changing along with the rest of the country. Maybe folks should realize that there are cuts occurring everywhere.... Keep enjoying your gallivanting, Barb!
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