DC Wrapup... ...and photos.

There has been some pressure for us to post pictures as soon as possible.  'Cloud computing,' alas, has not yet befallen us, and we've only now found ourselves in line of sight of regular, free wireless internet.  But do, finally, find all photos from DC here.

We've had a tremendous time in DC.  This is a wonderful, friendly, gorgeous, and welcoming city.  The developing Bostonians in us were shocked (shocked I tell you), to see not one, but two separate sets of strangers strike up substantive conversations on the DC Metro.  If someone was so outgoing with me, my defense-mechanism would quickly be initiated at what could only be interpreted in Boston as a threat of some variety.  In fact, one woman was so kind to provide us with directions at one point, that we were nearly stunned into silence.  She offered assistance; the last time a Bostonian offered assistance, it was to provide Grady Little with assistance in leaving town on a rail.

We are so grateful to Nick and his roommate, Bruce, who welcomed us into their home last night!  We enjoyed a wonderful Mexican meal, replete with the necessary libations, with Nick.  And tonight, we had a great meal with Dale, who was coincidentally in town on business.  Who knew that pig cheeks and bacon soup could be so, so good!  Of course, any meal is made infinitely better by warm company!

There is a certain, impressive symmetry between our visits to Gettysburg and to DC.  We've found ourselves, on a number of occasions, reflecting on the values of our society and culture, and the lengths to which so many people have gone to perfect and defend those values.  The strength of leadership, from the articulate, powerful words of Lincoln to the modest, persistent courage of World War II veterans, that has fulfilled the promise of our nation's founders is deeply striking.  You cannot read Lincoln's words at his memorial without finding some solace in his commitment to this nation; simultaneous, your heart cannot be unbroken by the sacrifice of the countless veterans, at Gettysburg, in southeast Asia, and in the Pacific and European theaters.

Most museums and monuments are free here; the access to such national treasures fosters a rich sense of ownership, whether of the memories in the memorials or in the rich works of art at the National Gallery.  The history, the stories, the art here is ours, as is the responsibility that comes with the privilege of such treasures.

Ultimately, we thus found our time in Washington to be deeply rewarding.  This is a city of monuments and temples; but for us, it is comforting to think of this city as one public park.  This is the place where one can just walk and experience the history of this country and this nation, and be inspired to give back some measure of commitment.