What a great few days I've had enjoying the sights and sounds of DC! After work Friday, Georganne and I went to dinner and shopping at Trader Joe's. Washington had record-breaking heat on Friday -- 104 with a feels-like temperature of 108. Steamy! We got our ID badges (almost official) and have yet to gain computer access. I met with the occupational health nurse to discuss my project and also the head of the Data Technical Center who will help me with gathering research.
We had a horrible storm here Friday night called a derecho, which affected much of DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Fortunately, the Casa was spared, though there are still many places without power, even areas as close as a few blocks from where I am living.
Saturday afternoon I decided to visit the Library of Congress. I viewed a replication of Thomas Jefferson's library containing both original books and books purchased to reconstitute his library. I took a moment to imagine Thomas Jefferson holding and reading those that were part of his original collection -- very awe-inspiring.
I also got to view the Great Hall, a remarkable display of art and architecture. I looked from the balcony into the Main Reading Room, which is the actual library area. To gain access into the reading room, one must submit an application stating need for access to the library to conduct research. Apparently, this is one library where everyone cannot just get a card!
Despite the near-100 degree heat on Saturday, I decided to take a walk. I walked from the library past the Congressional Building, along the National Mall, and to the Washington Monument. From there I took in the WW II memorial, Vietnam Memorial, and then walked to the Lincoln Memorial before heading to the Metro. On the hike to the Metro, I walked past the WHO and Dept. of State, so it was a very productive, long, and HOT walk -- almost five miles.
Sunday, I rented a bike thru the Capitol Bikeshare program, and rode it into the area of Gallaudet University and back to my neighborhood. The Bikeshare program is innovative and provides bikes for short-term use available in racks all over the city. We had our community Mass and dinner in the evening for the residents of the Casa, so I was able to meet a few other housemates, and the Sisters were here also.
Back to work today, with more development towards my project. I met the other members of the team who are with the Directorate of Technical Support and Emergency Management and sat in on the weekly team meeting. I headed over to the Kennedy Center to catch the 6pm performance tonight, Celtic AIre, a folk ensemble of the Air Force.
Tomorrow the goal for the day is to gain computer access! Then I can get started with my project plan and so on. I am planning on going to the Capital 4th of July Concert rehearsal tomorrow evening too -- have to take advantage of being in our Capital for our great nation's birthday.
 |
| Library of Congress |
 |
| Inside Great Hall |
 |
| Sculpture Garden, Smithsonian |
 |
| Vietnam Veterans Memorial |
 |
| Washington Monument |
 |
| Washington, DC VA Medical Center |
 |
| My Ride |
I'm absolutely awestruck by the architecture, the history and the amount of information that can be taken in by a "short" walk (5 miles)! Being lucky enough to spend the 4th of July there should be amazing.
ReplyDeleteThe news of the derecho followed by record setting heat made it all the way down here to the local papers! I understand that it involves straight 80 mph winds. Those wind speeds are mind boggling considering a level one hurricane has only 74 mph winds. Did they have a warning system up? Was there any tornadic activity?