Hello from Washington, DC

Well, I have been here a few days now and it has been an emotional rollercoaster. I barely got any sleep the night before I left (lots to do before I left). So the day of travel was exhausting: 4.00am start, 8.00am flight, arrived in DC at 5.00pm, saw Jamie at 6.15pm. A long day of travel!

Plus I was battling mixed feelings. I was happy that I have the opportunity to travel but was struggling with excitement. I was worried that my expectations for this trip are not reasonable. I had such an amazing time in Europe and worried that USA and Australia won't live up to it. Crazy thoughts but when I am travelling from one place to another, that is when I always do my best thinking. So, I came to the realization that every place is unique and I just have to embrace the opportunities.

And I am having a great time in DC. Jamie has been a great host (along with Farley and Asia, her two pugs!). I had a great sleep and got started in Washington. Yesterday I first saw the Supreme Court building and then the Library of Congress. That was such a cool building: lots to see and it was also air conditioned! It is so hot and humid in DC and I was out in the heat of the day. A few hours in the Library of Congress was a relief! But then I started my walk at the Capitol and walked down the Mall. So many people and so many buildings of interest. I only stopped in at the National Gallery of Art (A/C welcomed!). It was a long walk to the Washington Monument but what a view! Spectacular! Instead of heading towards the Lincoln Memorial, I walked to the White House. You don't get very close and it was interesting to see the security in place: the roof was covered with Secret Service agents!

So once I walked all the way back home (a lot further that I thought) I had to sit and let my body rest for a bit... not use to all the walking. Hopefully, my body will get used to it again. Then Jamie and I searched for a restaurant that didn't have 90 minute wait time and then struggled with parking. Eventually, success. We went to a great tapas restaurant. And then I experienced a city like none other I have seen. For some reason, I thought that because Washington is the capital city and has a lot of government offices, it would have very little crime. Not really the case: there is a large disadvantaged population which unfortunately leads to a lot of crime. And stereotypes and racism run rampant. I realized that I have lived a pretty sheltered life before this year. Don't worry, I feel safe but I feel sad when I see disadvantaged people living up to the stereotypes and not rising above their situation. For some reason, I thought New York would be like what I am seeing now.

Today we will go the the Eastern Flea Market and then I will continue at the Mall. But I must get ready now, so talk to you all later.

Love, Lisa