Sunday, March 3, 2019

Hometown Tourists

It seemed like a long time since we had seen the sun when at last it appeared yesterday afternoon. Taking advantage of the break in the weather, we put the dog in the car and headed off to the other side of town and the National Arboretum. It had been many, many years since I had been there, and I was eager to check it out.

Early March is not a very popular time to explore the 446 acres on the eastern edge of Washington, DC, but we did not have the place to ourselves, which was fine. There was a certain jolly camaraderie with everyone we met, all of us bundled in layers against the wind and happy to be out in the fresh air. And despite the mostly empty beds and leafless trees there was still quite a bit to see.

The National Capitol Columns stood stark against the faded blue sky, and it won't be long until the flowering trees are in bloom. In the herb garden a new exhibit of hops pays tribute to the rise in popularity of craft beer, something I could definitely get behind!

A little further down was another outdoor exhibit on grass and lawns, which was fascinating even at this time of year. We spent a little while comparing the winter colors and textures of the several examples, and I sent a picture of the welcome banner to my brother-in-law, a man who knows his lawns!

With so much space to walk and so many things to smell, Lucy loved it too, and we could see why it is known as one of the dog-friendliest attractions in town. The sun disappeared behind some clouds and the day grew dark before we even had a chance to check out the azalea library, the bonsais, the fern trail, the grove of state trees, or the famous eagle nest, but we weren't disappointed: all the more reason to visit again soon.

3 comments:

  1. Nice- I haven't been there in years! Your slice is very persuasive! Will plan on going.

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  2. Did you see the eagles that nest there?

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  3. I used to love this place...in warmer weather. "The National Capitol Columns stood stark against the faded blue sky, and it won't be long until the flowering trees are in bloom." I approve of that promise.

    And I didn't even know it was dog-friendly. Nice tip.

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