Stand Strong Washington Monument

Through the Lens Thursdays

My pep talk to the Washington Monument.

I know you’ve had a rough week, but stay strong Washington Monument. We all have a few cracks we’re trying to cover up. With a little mortar and a few days rest you’ll be that young monument of 1884 in no time.

You represent a great president; a symbol of D.C. and America. Towering over our capitol city, you’re the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk. You are made of mighty marble and granite.  Need I say more?

I can still remember my first visit to D.C. when I charmingly nick-named you ‘The Big Pencil’. Only a wee little thing, I was amazed at this robust fortress standing before me, so high it seemed to touch the sky (I’m talking about you, Washington Monument).   I’ve admired you since.

Stand proudly “Big Pencil”.  D.C. residents and visiting tourists (on Segways) need you.

Stand Strong

Segwaying!

Click here to read the latest update on the cracks found on the Washington Monument.

DC Earthquake: All Shook Up

Thankful Tuesdays

Today I experienced my second earthquake while living in D.C. (also my second earthquake ever).  My first quake encounter happened last June during the wee hours of the morning and awoke me from a deep slumber. I’m known to have pretty vivid dreams so the next day I actually googled it to confirm the quake was a reality.

Today those same thoughts ran through my mind, “Is this real?”

As I diligently worked away at my desk (as any good employee would) I suddenly felt a little rumble and thought I was imagining my whole office shaking.  Immediately though, my survival instincts kicked in and I jumped underneath the nearest door frame…that’s what you’re supposed to do right? Give me a break, I’m from the east coast.

After the 45 second shake, I walked into our office lobby and everyone seemed to be in a daze. They too were seeking confirmation that yes that was an earthquake, and looking for answers on what to do next. As an east coast native I haven’t had an earthquake drill since high school, so I just followed the crowd and walked outside.

Later on, winding back down at my desk while refreshing the Washington Post’s webpage, I was thankful for all the texts and phone calls from my family and friends making sure I was okay. Most importantly though, I was thankful they were also just fine.

Driving home I enjoyed listening to all the earthquake themed country songs the witty radio station played like, Luke Bryan’s “Shake it for me, girl” and Neal McCoy’s “The Shake”.

The only tragedy of the day….

“Bertrum the Bear” tragically fell off my bed. I know, I know, it’s almost unbearable to look at the photo.

Aftermath of D.C. Earthquake!

Don’t worry, with a few hugs he was as good as new.

To end on a safety note here is a link for what to do before, during, and after an earthquake just in case another ever hits D.C.

Potomac River Boat Trips

Thankful Tuesdays

This past week I went boating with some friends on the Potomac. I had wanted to do this all summer, and it surely didn’t disappoint.

We began our boat trip at Columbia Island Marina and ended the evening viewing the sun set over Rosslyn on the calm water.

Sitting on the river drinking wine, feeling the delicate warmth only a summer evening brings, watching the golden sun caste an orange glow on the Washington monuments, I couldn’t imagine a more perfect end to a day in the District.

This was one of those nights where I just truly admired Washington, D.C. and felt lucky to see our nation’s capitol every day.

God. Bless. America.  🙂

I loved these mason jar wine glasses by Hill Billy Crystal!

Group shot in front of the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.

Purple clouds over the Memorial Bridge.

Sun setting over the Rosslyn skyline.