Washington, D.C., 12/22/05

I'll post pictures at some point during this trip, but first I need to charge my camera battery!

Flew from Chattanooga to Washington National this afternoon; it was quite dark by the time I got up here. D.C., from the air, at night, is an impressive sight. Especially the Beltway, which is a ribbon of white and red lights. The Washington Monument is never more phallic than at night; it stands alone in a dark area, itself brightly illuminated and saying "Check me out."

I clearly have some good travel karma built up. Leaving Chattanooga was a task of no effort whatsoever, and I didn't check a bag, so I was able to grab-and-go at National, walk to the Metro, wait all of two minutes for a train, and get to my brother's place.

We've got three dogs up here this time: Java, George, and Jim's dog Sophie. George travels well; Java must be tranquilized. All three are getting used to the presence of other dogs, so I don't expect any problems.

There's a Capitals game tomorrow night, versus the Montreal Canadiens; I'm trying, with little success, to convince Dad and Jim to go with me. Between that and holiday schedules, I rather doubt I'll have time to visit Capital Aikikai, which is a damn shame; I had a wonderful time taking class there the last time I was up here.

Bloody hell, I'm tired. Given what my travel schedule has been (and is about to be again!), perhaps traveling to relax wasn't the best idea. But that's okay.

Stay well, and safe travels to you all in this holiday season. More notes later.