DC Arrival and the National Cathedral

Time to leave the peacefulness of the mountains and enter the energetic frenzy of our nation's capital. We'll be arriving just in time for cherry blossoms, Easter and finally spring! As we come into the city, we have a magnificent view of the National Cathedral, which will be our first official taste of all this city has to offer.

After checking into our weekend home, the Omni Shoreham, a beautifully restored spectacle, we are a quick cab drive away to the cathedral. A drive through a gorgeous area of manicured lawns presents the spring we've been anticipating, and brings us to the front steps of the church. Upon entering, we are awed by the expansive main corridor. Several large groups are gathering at the same time and there is room for all of us. We, fortunately, are able to escape soon to the lower area which houses several small chapels, all incredibly intimate and each turn brings us into a new and completely different spot. We take each little haven in and, as we are exploring, the organist above has come in to start a rehearsal for the upcoming Easter services. What a treat!

The cathedral is magical in itself but, with the music, transforms into another world. I find a seat and sit mesmerized for the better part of an hour, watching people tour through, while Celeste continues her search for the perfec shot - inside and out. It is the ideal beginning for our stay here. This is a place I've wanted to see for awhile and it does not disappoint. As the staff prepares for the holiday, we watch the photographers readying their equipment, lighting adjusted, flower arrangements assembled, while listening to the continuing music in the background. We have found the ultimate time to visit.

With much effort, we begin our exit and stroll back toward the hotel, taking our time finding a taxi, as the neighborhood and all it's spring splendor makes for another welcoming start to our stay. This is truly an excellent prelude to Easter!

We settle into our room and then find an ideal location for happy hour while we wait for Ashley and Chris to join. The bartender blends the quintessential mojito loaded with fresh mint, as we continue to feel the arrival of spring. It's great to see my baby girl and her special man and we enjoy a leisurely evening of drinks and dinner in the atrium of this very pretty hotel. We are given our itineraries for the week ahead, which my daughter has painstakingly prepared, and a final after dinner drink brings a lovely end to this transition day. Here's to spring!!!