December 17, Washington DC

Somehow, I was in charge of the itinerary today and after serious research last night, this morning it included 3 stops. So you can see we had a heavily scheduled day!

After breakfast at the hotel, we caught the Metro in to China town to find a store. Then, we walked down to Macy's and Mum and I got some shoes.

We then headed back to the Smithsonian. As we were wondering toward the Museum of American History, we were looking up toward the Lincoln Monument and I commented that I would like to go there. After some discussion I ended up catching a cab and spent a lovely half hour at the monument. I even met a friendly guy who helped me take some photos, and eventually gave me back my camera.

At the Lincoln Monument

In the National Mall.

From there I had time to wander around the Museum of American History. I was a little disappointed that there were no displays on the movement west. Seemed very East coast focussed. It was cool to see the ruby slippers, and the First Lady's dresses. But I would have liked to have seen more variety.

Detail from Michelle Obama's inauguration gown

Once we finished we headed to Pentagon City to fix a problem I was having. See, my boots had started to disintegrate. I have left little pieces of the sole all around Washington, through the Museum of American History, around the Lincoln Monument and finally through the mall at Pentagon City. Thank goodness I found a really comfortable pair of Sketchers at Macy's and could throw the boots in the bin!

Back to the hotel for washing and an early night. Of the 3 things on the schedule we managed to accomplish 2 of them, but that's okay!