Day in D.C.

This past Saturday, DH and I went on a day trip to Washington, D.C. We had been to the area several times, each trip crossing off a few items from among the hundreds of things to see and do, including Arlington Cemetery, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. This trip we decided to take in a game at Nationals Park. I myself have not ventured far from Camden Yards, so i was very excited to take in a new venue.

When presented with the choice to walk around the city or take the metro, one glance to DH and he knew we were walking. The weather was gorgeous and this was the first opportunity to get some exercise since my stress fracture healed. On a side note...I hate the metro! :-) After a brief visit to the National Archives, we were off to the ballpark.

Nationals Park is the first major stadium to become certified as a green ballpark. It includes energy saving lights and plumbing fixtures to conserve water. All food and beverage containers we received were made with recycled materials. Fans are also encouraged to use the recycling centers that are available throughout the concourse. The ballpark is nice and open. I can't imagine any seat being a bad one in this stadium.

The Presidents Race

On this night, it was the Nationals vs. the Baltimore, Orioles. DH is a big O's fan. I'm not a big baseball fan, but I do enjoy the atmosphere. Among the fan favorites is the Presidents Race. During the fourth inning, the four presidents found on Mount Rushmore (George, Abe, Tom, and Teddy) race along the warning track, up the first base foul line to finish near the Washington Nationals’ home dugout. As I quickly learned, Teddy has never won a race! During this race, he appeared to have revenge on his mind as he abandon the race and tackled the Oriole's mascot at first base. I'm told this was to be expected after The Bird took him out of the race during a previous meeting of these bitter rivals.

You can learn more about Teddy's plight at http://blog.letteddywin.com/. The site includes standings, race videos and disqualifications. Hint: a segway may have been involved.

After a 6-1 Oriole's lead, the Nationals came back to make it a nail-biter. In the end the O's won 6-5. DH was happy and we were headed for home. On the way back to the parking garage we stopped to take one last picture. DC is even more beautiful at night. Enjoy!