Traveling in a new city can be intimidating. Add to that traveling alone, in a new state, using unfamiliar public transportation, and you have a recipe for a pretty intense experience. I’m too stubborn, though, to let a little dark get in the way of what I want.
Having never before visited the nation’s capitol, I was determined to do the tourist things. I’m not shy about asking for help, advice, directions, or anything else that will keep me from doing what I want and seeing all the city has to offer.Last night was one such experience. After dinner I headed to the metro, and introduced myself to Calvin, the friendly older gentleman in charge of the L’Enfant Metro Station at night. He couldn’t have been happier to help this California girl navigate herself around the city.
After assuring me there were ‘lots of police’ out at night, he directed me onto the ‘blue line’ towards the capitol. Upon exiting the underground stop I was astonished to be the only person within sight-and it was 8:30 p.m. on a Friday night!
Heading towards the Capitol Building I was struck by the majestic glow coming through the barren trees. The strength, beauty and majesty of our country shone brightly, and I began circling the grounds to see it from every angle. Turning, I caught a glimpse of the Washington Memorial towering high in the sky, lit up like a beacon. I began walking, sure that there would be more undiscovered beauty waiting for me along the way.
Walking the city alone, in the dark, may not be for everyone. But for me the calm and solitude of the chilly night was the perfect backdrop for the brillance I encountered. And I didn’t have to share it with anyone else-it was all for me tonight.
Are you letting something get in your way?
Jennifer Wolfe
Jennifer Wolfe, a writer-teacher-mom, is dedicated to finding the extraordinary in the ordinary moments of life by thinking deeply, loving fiercely, and teaching audaciously. Jennifer is a Google Certified Educator, Hyperdoc fanatic, and a voracious reader. Read her stories on her blog, mamawolfe, and grab free copies of her teaching and parenting resources.
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BAWAH ANE MAHO ANJING
As I have fewer years ahead of me than I have behind me, I am not letting things get in my way. I won’t ever join the ‘Polar Bear Club’, but I am this close…
Ooh, I like that spunk! But the Polar Bear Club…brrr. Not for me!
I love D.C.! So much to see and absorb. It’s been awhile, and I’d love to go back again. Enjoy!
Courtney
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Teaming together for blog performance!
Hi Courtney,
That’s so true! I left feeling like I had only scratched the surface!
Dear Jennifer,
Yes, I am letting something get in my way–my fear of buying a house at my age. An age–when others are selling theirs and settling into a condo. But no condo will allow three cats and I’m not me without Maggie, Ellie, and Matthew.
Peace.
Dee, you are a woman with a clear vision. I know the right decision will come to you.
Is that a trick question? My current ‘in the way thought’ getting over the fear of the rejection letters that will surely come my way when I start submitting query letters to agents. I know this is part of the process but… it doesn’t mean it’s easy on this writer’s heart. Great picture, btw.
Ooh, that’s a good one to get in your way. It’s scary , I know. You’re so strong and awesome, though, that I know you’ll make it through.
Mama,
I love that you did that.
What empowerment & freedom you must have felt.
And in Washington DC. How apt. Xx
Thanks, Kim. It did feel great to be wandering on my own…I completely enjoyed myself.
Hey! I really enjoyed meeting you this past weekend at the TGC symposium in DC. I hope you had a great time and are ready to travel! I also want to let you know that I enjoy reading your blog and want to share a blogging award with you that will hopefully motivate us to continue blogging about our respective travel experiences. I awoke this morning to see that someone had passed on the Liebster Blog Award to me and a requirement of this award is to recognize other “favorite” blogs. You’re it! Congratulations!
Thanks, Aaron! It was great to meet you, too, and I appreciate the award very much!
Kathy, I did have a great time. It feels like I only scratched the surface, though!
Washington DC is one of my favorite places! It might be the New Yorker in me, but I still get a little uncomfortable walking at night alone, although it is beautiful! Last year I had the fun of tagging along on a business trip to Washington DC with my husband, while he worked I did the tourist thing. I had a ball! Enjoy!!!
I find a certain peace when walking in the dark alone too. You don’t get that everyday, with all the hustle and bustle of life. You are a brave woman, venturing out there alone 🙂
Thanks, Pepper. It was really fun!
Sweet
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