Not the "Vacation" I'm sure the Go-Gos had in mind...

We're baaaaack.

I swear, if there hadn't been a plane-load of people behind me, I would've knelt down and kissed that worn-out, stained piece of fabric they call carpet in the jetway.

I've already made my declaration that next year will be an "immediate family-only" vacation. There are just some things that shouldn't involve more than four people, and vacation is one of them. Going on a trip to a strange city is difficult enough with two kids, but add people that have no idea of what raising kids is like, well... you get the picture.

My kids aren't angels by any stretch of the imagination. I'll be the first to admit that there are times when I don't seem to have any clue about raising them, either. So, when certain itineraries don't leave enough down time for said children who are not used to walking everywhere, things can get a little, oh, cranky.

DC was an incredible place, though. We stayed in Dupont Circle and I loved the energy of the neighborhood. I was envious of the people who lived there, being able to take advantage of a fabulous Farmers Market, then taking their Sunday paper and a grande mocha-whatever out on the circle to enjoy the park and the people watching. And if I'd been 15 years younger without kids, I think I'd have to seriously consider living in Georgetown. We only got there for dinner and I didn't have time to shop in any of the fabulous make-up stores along M Street. This is what a fun city is all about.

People aren't kidding when they say it's expensive, though. We did manage to find a few good little places to eat by asking the locals. Luna Grill was a funky little eatery that we all loved. Great food and service. A half serving of pasta (which was STILL too big to finish) was only $4. Can't beat that. Note for next time - get a room with a mini fridge.

We hit every touristy thing possible. J's favorite was the Lincoln Memorial. We went there at night, partly because it was unseasonably hot for such a long walk during the day and also to see it lit. It was very moving, even with some of the lights on the outer structure out due to renovations. E's best stop was the Dept. of Printing and Engraving. Anything to do with money HAS to be good, in his eyes. I enjoyed the National Archives, as well as the Smithsonian Museum of Art. Watching the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns gave me goosebumps.

So, I'm back to the routine. Work starts again on Monday and the computer is still in limbo. I hope it's not another month before it's fixed. Oy.