happy and snappy

I'm writing this on A's computer in Arlington, VA. I lived a magnificent day! I woke up at 7:30, fed the 12 hour meter, ate breakfast, rode the orange line to the Smithsonian stop. Then, I met S who I haven't seen in 8 years. We had a great time. First thing after the hug, we were accosted by an Australian TV crew for an interview. Come to find out, it was a spoof. I signed the release so that they could use it.

We laughed and joked as we admired the cherry blossoms in the rain. And, we chuckled at our artsy shots of the Tulip Library with Don's Johns in the background. We went to the Natural Science Museum and checked out the Darwin and Orchid exhibit. Then we went to the National Gallery's Sculpture Garden and then the National Gallery. S knows art; I enjoyed her knowledge and observations.

We almost made it to the East building, but lunch and the gift shop stopped us. Lunch was good; we ordered the exact same thing except we got different hot teas. We talked about our lives and goals... and turning 30.

Then she had to go to work. I ended up going to the Freer and Sackler museums. I got really cool Teacher's guides for Islam Art, Ancient China and the Silk Road that incorporate the art into history lessons. They also have the kids produce something.

I then went to the East building and saw the Illuminated Manuscript Exhibit and the Calder room. I took illegal pictures in both; I got fussed at in both. I didn't see any signs.

I went out to eat with A at this nifty "European Fast Food" restaurant. It was delicious, fresh and different.

Then I went to shop for a wedding present for R; I missed his wedding in August. I'll give them: Berry's "Collected Poems", Collins' "Sailing Around the Room Alone" and Eliot's "Four Quartets".

Tomorrow I'm going to the zoo with E.

I'm exhausted; I think Carolina will manage to win this championship without me watching.