They say that the youth is wasted on the young, which for the most part is true, but when it comes to history museums I believe that it is an experience that can only get better with age.

My father took me on my first trip to DC was when I was a disgruntled 12-year-old girl (That’s me above, looking pretty displeased and bored). During our visit to the Smithsonian’s American History Museum, I was convinced that the endless rows of model battleships were going to be the death of me. I was not yet mature enough to appreciate their importance, and the key role they played in establishing the Navy that we know today.

The girl in that picture definitely wouldn’t have noticed the gorgeous screen prints of african american painter Jacob Lawrence, or appreciate the beauty of John Coltrane’s Sax, whose music means so much to me now. As an adult I can now feel the gravity of Lincolns bronze bust, displaying each wrinkle and concern on his face, wrought by the civil war. The stove top hat he was wearing when he was shot, now brings me feelings of sorrow and regret for the American people. The younger me, certainly would not have marveled at the chairs from the Appomatox courthouse, in which Grant accepted Lee’s surrender ending the civil war. These are things that can only be appreciated with age.

My favorite part of this trip however, wasn’t the museums, it was visiting the incredible monuments lit up at night. It is hard not to feel patriotic standing in the Lincoln Memorial, reading his famous Gettysburg address, while looking over the towering Washington monument. As luck would have it, we also went on a particularly beautiful night, the moon was bright orange and full, casting an almost magical glow on this historic city.

To round out our trip, we recruited a local to show us around, this is my favorite way to travel. Yelp and Trip Advisory can only get you so far. If you really want to experience a city then you should ask a resident. My good pal, Ariel took us to an amazing restaurant called, Bus Boys and Poets. It was equal parts bookstore, bar, coffee shop, restaurant, and performance space. The food was a delicious blend of vegetarian soul food and classic healthy American cuisine. The vibes couldn’t have been better and if we lived in DC we would definitely be regulars.

There is so much to say about this city that it was hard to keep it brief. I could go on and on about the history and the traditions of this sacred ground. As I reflect, I can only assume that my love for history sprung from that initial trip my father took me on,

when I was a difficult pre teen with so much to learn.

An Amendment: If you want more info about Bus Boys and Poets, look them up here:

Busboys and Poets

You should definately check them out if you are going to be in the DC area.

Pet Travel Tips: If you are going to be staying at a hotel with your pet, ask to be in a room far away from the elevator. Our Phoebe barked almost the entire night at the comings and goings of the guests.

Ok, off to Hilton Head, SC. Got a 9 hour drive ahead of us.