Washington DC Staycation
Sometimes I’m so focused on planning my next trip, I forget to enjoy the world directly around me. I easily take for granted the ever changing array of awesome exhibits, new openings, and wonderful food within 30 minutes of my house. Sometimes it takes a visitor to make me a tourist again in my own area.
This past weekend, that visitor was my sister’s childhood best friend. We decided on a girls day in Washington DC and I realized I haven’t actually gone into the city just to wander about in decades. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve been in for shows, games, and some Girl Scout tours, but just a free day of “Let’s see where the day takes us?” I’d have to go back to a time before having kids for that, I think.
Our only plan was brunch. A nice boozy one, at that. I’ve been living out of the city for quite some time now, and was not aware of just how much of a SCENE that DC brunch experience has become. Everybody was dressed fully in gorgeous dresses and heels. I suddenly felt out of place in my jeans and nice sweater. I had earrings on, so it’s not like I had just rolled out of bed! But compared to everyone else, including my sister, who knew the deal and didn’t share the knowledge, I was definitely underdressed. The amazing cocktails at Dirty Habits helped me through my shame.
As we walked out with no direction in store, my sister spotted the new Puttery, an indoor, themed mini-golf course. With our history of family-owned miniature golf courses, this was a no-brainer. I always like to showcase my mad skills. Ha! It turns out I’m not actually so skilled anymore. It was a humbling experience. Don’t get me wrong, I still won. It wasn’t THAT severe. But Puttery certainly isn’t listing me at the top of the leader board any time soon. More cocktails at their fun bar helped me through my shame.
It was time to explore greatness after that display of NOT greatness, so we ventured over to the Smithsonian American Art Museum and Portrait Gallery. The last time I had stepped foot into the building had been while chaperoning my daughter’s 6th grade art class ages ago. While I enjoyed leading a group of children around the museum - including one girl who made sure I understood she didn’t like any people, only dragons - it was nice to meander at my own pace and take in the art. We lucked upon a live dance performance in the center atrium and really had the chance to appreciate everything at our own pace. Magical.
Suddenly it was dinner time. I felt so free! I hadn’t planned or cooked anything. Guiltily I texted my husband and told him to throw some food on for the rest of the family as I would be dining out. I blamed my sister. It was out of my hands. Onward to a delicious dinner at The Smith, and perhaps another cocktail.
It’s just amazing to have a full day that feels like a vacation right in my backyard. I need to remember that I really don’t have to go that far to experience something completely new.